Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized his administration’s dedication to fostering unity and social harmony, asserting that this approach is essential for Australia to heal and move forward as a nation.

“True leadership demands decisive action, and this government delayed until opposition was no longer tenable,” Albanese remarked.

Albanese assured that the commission’s work will not be a prolonged affair, with Justice Virginia Bell expected to deliver findings by December 14, 2026, marking the first anniversary of the Bondi incident.

Regarding the financial implications of the inquiry, Albanese stated that details will be disclosed in the upcoming May budget.

Justice Bell is known for her previous investigation into former Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s controversial self-appointment to various ministerial roles during the COVID-19 crisis.

Albanese outlined that the inquiry would complement swift actions already underway, such as the implementation of stricter gun laws, the allocation of additional resources to law enforcement, and the introduction of anticipated legislation aimed at criminalizing hate speech.

He said the inquiry would build on immediate actions, including fast-tracking tougher gun laws, additional resources for law enforcement agencies to help prevent further attacks and anticipated new laws to criminalise hate speech.

However, on Tuesday, he noticeably softened his language, opening the door to the possibility of a royal commission.

“They expect sustained action to address the conditions that allowed such hatred to take root, and both must proceed together. So I will work very closely, where appropriate, with the commissioner.”

Albanese, Burke push back on Ley’s proposal

“Some of the terms of reference that had been floated around, in particular from the Opposition in recent weeks, would have left something that gave us no answers for a very long time,” Burke said.