Anthony Albanese names Virginia Bell to lead Royal Commission into antisemitism

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will appoint former High Court judge Virginia Bell to head a federal Royal Commission into antisemitism after cabinet approval, and some Jewish community figures and opposition politicians have publicly criticised the choice.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will appoint former High Court judge Virginia Bell to lead a federal Royal Commission into antisemitism. The announcement follows growing calls for a formal inquiry after the December 14 attack. Cabinet has signed off on the multi‑million probe and Albanese is expected to confirm the appointment on Thursday afternoon. Some Jewish community leaders, families of victims and opposition politicians have publicly expressed concerns about the choice. Known details: - Virginia Bell is set to lead the federal Royal Commission into antisemitism. - Cabinet approved the multi‑million inquiry and the Prime Minister is scheduled to make the appointment public. - Former Liberal treasurer Josh Frydenberg and Opposition senator Jonno Duniam criticised the appointment and suggested alternatives such as a three‑member panel. - Legal figures including Ben Saul have defended Bell’s reputation for fairness; Bell served on the High Court from 2009 to 2021, presided over the Brown v Tasmania decision, and led prior inquiries. Summary: Albanese’s expected announcement follows cabinet approval and has prompted a range of public reactions. The debate includes calls for different commission arrangements while others have defended Bell’s impartiality. Further details on the commission’s final structure and timetable are undetermined at this time.