Former High Court judge Virginia Bell will convene the commission at 10am.
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- The commission is expected to drill into the security environment before alleged IS terrorists opened fire at the Chanukah By The Sea festival, in December, killing 15 innocents.
- The Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion will resume in Sydney today for a second set of hearings, 10 days since the first block concluded with the lived experience of Jews.
- Among those to give evidence today are the head of Australia’s spy agency, Mike Burgess, Federal Police Assistant Commissioner Stephen Nutt and NSW Police Counter Terror Commander Leanne McCusker.
- Commissioner Virginia Bell is expected to question NSW Police about their decision to task just a handful of officers to the Chanukah By The Sea festival at Bondi Beach on December 14, at which 15 people were shot dead.
- Behind every Royal Commission witness are hundreds too afraid to speak - J
- Royal commission witness says 'vile' antisemitism risks safety of children
Gutnick's testimony is significant as it marks the first public account from a victim's family member, highlighting the personal impact of antisemitism. The commission is particularly focused on gathering insights from non-Jewish Australians who are concerned about the rising tide of antisemitism in the country.
This inquiry aims to address the broader implications of antisemitism and social cohesion, as many witnesses have expressed their fears about the increasing hostility towards Jewish communities.
The royal commission is expected to continue its hearings, with more testimonies anticipated in the coming days, reflecting a growing concern within Australian society about the effects of antisemitism. As the commission progresses, it seeks to provide a platform for victims and their families to voice their experiences and advocate for accountability and change.
