8 January 2026 — For immediate release
Chris Garnaut, one of the business leaders who publicly called for a Royal Commission into the Bondi terror attack in its immediate aftermath, has today launched a new national website - bondiroyalcommission.com.au - to support calls for a Commonwealth Royal Commission.
Mr Garnaut was among the early business signatories urging the Federal Government to establish an independent national inquiry, noting that the scale and nature of the attack raised serious national questions best examined through a federal process rather than a limited or fragmented review.
“From the outset, it was clear that this was not simply a local or state matter,” Mr Garnaut said.
“Terrorism, extremism and the systems designed to prevent them are Commonwealth responsibilities. Only a federal Royal Commission has the authority to examine the full picture, including intelligence, borders and prevention frameworks, and ensure accountability.”
A national platform for transparency and engagement
The website has been designed as a central public resource, setting out the case for a Commonwealth Royal Commission, explaining the powers such an inquiry would hold, and outlining why state-based processes would be insufficient to address the national security questions raised by the attack.
It also provides a simple mechanism for Australians to register their support, allowing the initiative to build a national database of supporters who wish to stay informed and engaged as the discussion continues.
“This site is about transparency, public engagement and ensuring that lessons are learned properly,” Mr Garnaut said.
“The families affected by the attack - and the wider Australian community - deserve a process that is independent, thorough and genuinely national.”
Focus on consultation and social cohesion
Mr Garnaut said any Royal Commission must involve meaningful consultation with affected communities, including the Jewish community and others impacted by the attack, particularly in relation to the appointment of the Commissioner and the development of the Terms of Reference.
He said the goal must be accountability and national learning, while strengthening Australia’s shared values of inclusion and unity.
“Many cultures, many beliefs, one Australia.”
The website will also serve as a hub for updates, analysis and links to credible organisations working in the fields of counter-terrorism, community safety and social cohesion.
Call to action
Australians are encouraged to visit bondiroyalcommission.com.au to learn more and to add their support for a federal Royal Commission.
“A serious national tragedy deserves a serious national response,” Mr Garnaut said.
ENDS
Media contact – available for comment and interview
Name: Chris Garnaut
Phone: 0417 377 991
Email: [email protected]
Contact details:
