One of Australia’s most senior Catholic figures has emphasized that the Church’s appeal for an inquiry into antisemitism should remain apolitical, while urging the government to delve deeper into understanding the spread of this ancient hatred across the nation. The call comes amidst increasing support from various sectors, highlighting the urgency of addressing antisemitism in Australia.
The Australian Catholic Bishops Conference has stopped short of advocating for a royal commission, a demand now backed by the Business Council of Australia, over 100 industry leaders, more than 200 judges and barristers, the Coalition, and two of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s backbenchers. Melbourne Archbishop Peter Comensoli stated on Friday that while the bishops do not wish to dictate the form of the inquiry, it is crucial for Australia to examine how antisemitism has become ingrained in parts of society.
“Many voices now are calling for some serious inquiry, and I think that the government might be able to hear that and respond in a positive way. I think [that] would be a significant move,” Comensoli said. “There is importance that this is not politicised, but that there is a deep call for an examination and ways of naming and then addressing [antisemitism].”
Growing Support for a Royal Commission
The call for an inquiry has gained momentum, particularly following the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas on Israel, which Archbishop Comensoli noted had led to an “explosion” of antisemitic incidents in Australia. However, he stressed that the issue has been present in Australian society for a significant period.
Joining the religious leaders, the Business Council of Australia (BCA) has also endorsed the call for a royal commission. The BCA emphasized that such an inquiry is crucial for supporting diverse workplaces and demonstrating Australia’s commitment to combating antisemitism.
“Without sustainably safe and cohesive workplaces and communities, we cannot deliver prosperity for all Australians, which is the ultimate objective underpinning the advocacy and efforts of our organisations,” the BCA stated.
The BCA’s statement was released on behalf of eight other leading industry bodies, including the Australian Banking Association and the Australian Retailers Association. However, the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry did not join the statement, with its chief executive, Andrew McKellar, emphasizing direct collaboration with the government for a comprehensive response.
Political and Public Reactions
Former Victorian Liberal premiers Ted Baillieu, Denis Napthine, and Jeff Kennett have also voiced their support for a royal commission. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley highlighted the widespread public demand for such an inquiry, pointing to the unity among Australians on this issue.
“The prime minister called for unity in the early days after the Bondi massacre. Today, we have unity. We have unity of purpose, and we have unity in a request for this Commonwealth royal commission,” Ley stated.
Despite these calls, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has defended the government’s current measures, which include adopting recommendations from antisemitism envoy Jillian Segal, supporting a state-based royal commission, and launching an inquiry into federal agencies. Critics, however, argue these actions are insufficient.
Looking Ahead: The Need for Comprehensive Action
Archbishop Timothy Costelloe, president of the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference, welcomed the government’s inquiry into security agencies but insisted more comprehensive action is required.
“It is only by shining a light into the dark corners of our society – including its political, business, academic, media, religious, and cultural institutions – that we can hope to unmask the antisemitism which might otherwise go unseen, unacknowledged and unaddressed,” Costelloe said.
He advocated for a national inquiry with sufficient authority and resources to explore the deeper issues at the heart of antisemitism. Meanwhile, neither the Australian National Imams Council nor the Australian Federation of Islamic Councils (AFIC) have publicly stated their position on a national inquiry, though both have condemned the Bondi attack.
As the debate continues, the call for a royal commission into antisemitism in Australia remains a critical issue, with various sectors of society urging the government to take decisive action.
