URGENT UPDATE: Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is confronting a significant leadership crisis following the devastating Bondi terror attack that occurred just nine days ago. As calls for a federal royal commission intensify, Albanese’s popularity has plunged, marking the lowest point since the May election.
During a press briefing at Parliament House on December 5, 2023, Albanese stated, “There was no royal commission called by the Howard government after Port Arthur,” emphasizing historical precedents in a bid to deflect criticism. However, with growing pressure from the Jewish community and opposition leaders, the Prime Minister’s stance is under severe scrutiny.
The attack, which claimed 15 lives in Bondi, has sparked outrage and demands for accountability, particularly from prominent figures like former treasurer Josh Frydenberg and influential Jewish leaders. Alex Ryvchin, co-chief executive of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, stated, “Only a royal commission can provide the full explanation of the Bondi deaths that is urgently required.”
Polling data shows a sharp decline in Albanese’s approval ratings, with nearly half of voters expressing dissatisfaction with the government’s response to the tragedy. A review by Dennis Richardson into federal intelligence and law enforcement agencies is expected to conclude by April 2024, but many argue that this is insufficient.
Political analyst Chris Wallace asserts that the Bondi incident has “profoundly damaged Anthony Albanese’s prime ministership.” The Prime Minister’s slow response to recommendations made by special envoy on antisemitism, Jillian Segal, has further fueled discontent. As Wallace notes, “There is no getting round the fact that the government got the Segal report in July and five months later was cruising towards the summer break without a response.”
With critics from both sides of the aisle, including opposition leader Sussan Ley, who accused Albanese of failing to show adequate empathy, the political landscape is increasingly fraught. Ley’s remarks at a press conference on Monday drew attention, as she claimed the Prime Minister had “not shed a single tear” over the attack.
Albanese has attempted to maintain a unified front, stating he “regrets” the politicization of the tragedy and will continue to call for national unity. However, some Labor members are voicing frustration over the lack of engagement with the Jewish community and the failure to call for a royal commission.
One Labor MP expressed, “It is our failure. It happened on our watch,” highlighting the internal turmoil within the party. Meanwhile, many constituents have reached out to their representatives, emphasizing that the blame for the tragedy should not rest solely on Albanese.
Former advisor Dean Sherr noted that the feelings of isolation within the Jewish community have intensified since the attack. He asserted that leaders must show unwavering support and understanding, stating, “The community is obviously looking for action and responsibility and accountability.”
As the Prime Minister heads into the summer break, the path forward remains uncertain. The next few weeks will be critical for Albanese to address the growing concerns and rebuild trust within the community and his party.
What to watch for: The upcoming review by Dennis Richardson is set to be completed by April, and how Albanese handles this situation could determine the future of his leadership. The political implications of the Bondi tragedy are likely to resonate well into 2024, as national security becomes an increasingly salient issue for voters.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
