Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion

Opened the debate

Cash argued that the resignation of Dennis Richardson, whom the Prime Minister had appointed for his expertise in intelligence and security, was a significant national security concern. Cash contended that Richardson’s statement that he was surplus to requirements indicated a failure by the government to properly examine the circumstances leading to the Bondi Beach attack. Cash asserted that the government had been reluctant to establish the royal commission and that Richardson’s departure was an indictment of the Prime Minister and the Attorney-General. Cash urged senators to support the suspension of standing orders to address this matter urgently.

Government response

Chisholm rejected the opposition’s motion as a political attack that sought to politicise the royal commission. Chisholm affirmed the government’s support for the commission, led by Justice Virginia Bell, and confirmed that the interim report would be delivered by 30 April. Chisholm highlighted other government actions to combat antisemitism, including work with the Special Envoy to Combat Antisemitism and legislative measures against hate and extremism. Chisholm argued that the opposition’s tactics delayed important legislation and moved that the question be put immediately.