The debate over the need for a royal commission has reached a new level of intensity, with the opposition firmly advocating for it, while the New South Wales government has already taken steps to initiate one. In response, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has confirmed that the federal government will cooperate with the commission’s proceedings.

Albanese pointed out today, “It’s worth noting that the Howard government did not call for a royal commission after the tragic events at Port Arthur, nor did the Abbott government initiate one following the Lindt Cafe siege.” He emphasized the role of the opposition during those times, stating, “As part of the opposition back then, we prioritized national unity and provided our full support.”

In the meantime, Albanese announced that a comprehensive report, led by former Secretary of Defence and Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Dennis Richardson, is underway and expected to be completed by April next year. This report is anticipated to offer a detailed analysis without the delays that a royal commission might entail.

Albanese said a thorough report from former Secretary of Defence and Secretary of Foreign Affairs Dennis Richardson would be completed by April next year.

By comparison, he said, a royal commission would likely incur delays.

“There hasn’t been a royal commission held recently that has not had an extension of time,” Albanese said.

He said in this case, many parts of the matter at hand were well-established, including the identities of the alleged attackers and their alleged motivation.

“We are continuing to investigate whether any other connections can be made, and the amount of work that has been done by police and security agencies in a relatively short period of time is quite extraordinary,” he said.