In the wake of a tragic incident at Bondi Beach, Australia’s Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, has declared a comprehensive national inquiry into antisemitism. This decision follows a horrifying attack during a Jewish holiday event where two gunmen opened fire, resulting in the loss of 15 lives.

The inquiry, to be conducted as a royal commission, represents the most thorough form of independent public examination available in the country. Former High Court judge Virginia Bell has been appointed to lead this critical investigation, as announced by Albanese in Canberra.

Prime Minister Albanese explained that the inquiry will delve into various aspects of antisemitism, including its nature, prevalence, and underlying causes. Furthermore, it will scrutinize the specific circumstances surrounding the Bondi mass shooting. The commission aims to offer recommendations that enhance law enforcement, bolster social cohesion, and curb the spread of extremism.

An anticipated report is expected by December 14, marking exactly one year since the tragic shooting that marred the Hanukkah celebration at this iconic Sydney location.

Albanese described the attack as an “antisemitic terrorist attack” targeting Jewish Australians, inspired by ISIS, making it the deadliest such incident on Australian soil. Naveed Akram, a 24-year-old suspect who survived the attack, is currently facing numerous charges, including murder and terrorism.

He has yet to enter a plea. His father, Sajid Akram, was shot dead by police during the episode.

The announcement followed weeks of urging, that has grown in volume, from lawmakers across the political spectrum, some Jewish leaders and other public figures such as prominent sportspeople for a national royal commission to be convened, instead of a statewide inquiry in New South Wales, where the shooting happened. Albanese at first suggested such a wide-ranging inquiry might take too long, but rejected the suggestion on Thursday that he had been pressured to change his mind.

“I have listened,” he said. “In a democracy that’s a good thing.”

Albanese had already launched an investigation into Australia’s security and law enforcement agencies following the shooting, which he said would become part of the royal commission. He also plans to enact a legislative agenda in response to the attack that includes tightening Australia’s already stringent gun laws and criminalizing the words of so-called hate preachers, which his government has said frequently fall below the bar for prosecution.