Government Adopts Jillian Segal’s Antisemitism Plan Amid Bondi Attack Fallout
Canberra, 8 January 2026 – Following the devastating Bondi Beach terror attack that claimed 15 lives, the Albanese Government has formally adopted the Plan to Combat Antisemitism developed by Special Envoy Jillian Segal AO. Released in July 2025, the plan outlines 13 recommendations and 49 key actions to eradicate antisemitism in Australia, with the government now committing to implement targeted legislative reforms, education initiatives, and enhanced online moderation.
Background on Jillian Segal’s Role
Jillian Segal AO was appointed Australia’s first Special Envoy to Combat Antisemitism in July 2024. Her report, delivered to the government in July 2025 and publicly released on 10 July 2025, highlighted a surge in antisemitic incidents following the October 2023 Hamas attack on Israel. The plan emphasises education, enforcement, cultural change, and legal measures to foster social cohesion. Segal has warned that antisemitism threatens Australia’s democratic fabric, urging action against hate speech, radicalisation, and incidents on university campuses.
Government’s Response and New Initiatives
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the full adoption of Segal’s plan on 8 January 2026, during a press conference at Parliament House. The response includes establishing an Antisemitism Education Taskforce, chaired by David Gonski AC, to address antisemitism in schools and universities. Legislative reforms will target hate preachers, radicalisation, and online platforms like X and Meta, with greater transparency in content moderation. The government has also pledged to convene a royal commission into the Bondi attack, led by former High Court Justice Virginia Bell, to investigate failures and recommend further actions. Segal praised the decision, stating it reflects the seriousness of rising antisemitism and its impact on democracy.
Key Facts and Statistics
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Antisemitic Incidents Surge | Incidents rose more than threefold in the year after October 2023, including assaults (up 120%), vandalism (up 100%), and verbal abuse (up 36%), per Segal’s July 2025 report. |
| Bondi Attack Impact | The ISIS-inspired attack on 15 December 2025 killed 15 people, including a 10-year-old girl, targeting a Jewish celebration at Bondi Beach. |
| Government Actions | Adoption of 46 out of 49 recommendations from Segal’s plan; establishment of education taskforce; legislative package for hate crimes and radicalisation. |
| Global Context | Australia endorsed Global Guidelines for Countering Antisemitism in July 2024, alongside 40 other countries, promoting whole-of-society commitment. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Plan to Combat Antisemitism?
The plan, authored by Jillian Segal, provides a blueprint to tackle antisemitism through education, law enforcement, cultural shifts, and online regulation. It includes tracking incidents nationally, cracking down on hate speech, and ensuring universities address campus antisemitism.
Why was a royal commission announced?
The royal commission into the Bondi attack aims to identify systemic failures in combating antisemitism and terrorism. It will examine intelligence warnings, workforce shortages in agencies like the AFP, and the rise in radicalisation, with Segal supporting it as a necessary step for accountability.
How will the Antisemitism Education Taskforce operate?
Chaired by David Gonski AC, the taskforce will involve Segal and education representatives to prevent and respond to antisemitism in schools and universities. It aligns with Segal’s recommendations for cultural change and mutual respect.