The Royal Commission into Antisemitism and Social Cohesion in Australia concluded on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, after more than 60 days of public hearings. The inquiry examined the prevalence of antisemitism in the country, particularly in the wake of the Bondi Beach terror attack that occurred during a Hanukkah celebration on December 14, 2025.

Rabbi Yehoram Ulman, director of Chabad of Bondi and the last of over 340 witnesses to testify, dedicated much of his statement to his son-in-law, Rabbi Eli Schlanger, who was killed in the Bondi Beach attack. Rabbi Ulman presided over Schlanger's funeral, the first of ten victims' funerals following the tragedy.

Reflecting on his loss, Rabbi Ulman said, "I looked at the coffin of the man who had married my daughter, who had become my son, who had worked beside me for years." He also spoke emotionally about Rabbi Schlanger's then two-month-old son, who was injured during the attack.

Addressing Commissioner Virginia Bell SC, Rabbi Ulman expressed gratitude for the commission's work and emphasized the ongoing responsibility to confront antisemitism. "The responsibility for addressing Jew hatred would now fall to government, institutions and communities," he said.

He concluded with a heartfelt hope: "My prayer is that when my grandson is old enough to understand what happened to his father, he will also be able to understand what Australia chose to do about it and that he would be proud of the choice we made."

The commission's closing highlighted the broader impact of antisemitism, noting it leaves "an empty seat at a Shabbat table" and causes children to question their safety in expressing their Jewish identity. Rabbi Ulman urged that "we must have the tools and the courage to confront hatred and radicalisation whenever and wherever it emerges."

The inquiry marks a significant step in addressing antisemitism and promoting social cohesion in Australia.

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