The Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion in Australia has responded to allegations from a prominent member of the Jewish community accusing pro-Palestinian groups of trying to "hijack" the inquiry through "clickbait theatrics and gratuitous slurs."

The Australia Palestine Advocacy Network (APAN) and the Palestine Action Group (PAG) were granted permission to appear at the commission's hearing on Tuesday, August 5, 2026, to question Jewish Board of Deputies president David Ossip. Mr. Ossip provided evidence on the impact of a controversial PAG-organised protest held on October 9, 2023, which involved a march from Town Hall to the Sydney Opera House.

Counsel for APAN, Ragni Mathur SC, challenged Mr. Ossip on his comments regarding the timing of the protest, particularly its proximity to the Hamas attack in southern Israel on October 7, 2023. Ms. Mathur asked if Mr. Ossip acknowledged that Palestinian Australians were deeply fearful about the future of those in the occupied territories. Mr. Ossip emphasized the importance of kindness, respect, understanding, and sensitivity among all Australian citizens.

The hearing included a detailed discussion about the timeline of Israeli military actions following the Hamas attack, with Ms. Mathur inquiring about the number of Palestinians killed by Israeli forces before October 7.

Commissioner Virginia Bell noted she had received a newspaper report citing a prominent Jewish community member who claimed that counsel representing APAN and PAG had "endeavoured to hijack the royal commission." Commissioner Bell also acknowledged that Ms. Mathur was representing organisations directly affected by the hearing's subject matter and that strong criticism was directed at those organisations' representatives.

The commission's response underscores the complexity and sensitivity surrounding the inquiry, highlighting the diverse perspectives involved.

Notable Quotes

  • "Clickbait theatrics and gratuitous slurs."
  • "I think it's important for all of us as citizens of Australia to show kindness and respect and understanding and sensitivity to others," said Mr. Ossip.
  • "Notwithstanding any trauma those Palestinian Australians were feeling, I feel like if they were involved in organising this rally at a time when such grievous acts of violence were being committed against Israeli citizens, I think that showed a lack of sensitivity."

Sources