Royal Commission witnesses face online abuse

The Royal Commissioner examining antisemitism in Australia has issued a scathing warning to people who have intimidated and harassed witnesses giving evidence to the inquiry.

The Australian Federal Police is investigating at least one matter arising from the online abuse.

Dozens of witnesses have given evidence to the Royal Commission into Antisemitism and Social Cohesion this month, providing examples of abuse they have received for being Jewish.

Royal Commissioner Virginia Bell opened Tuesday’s hearing by saying she was disturbed by the number of reports of continued abuse against lived-experience witnesses who have spoken at the inquiry.

“We have received reports from a number of witnesses concerning a dramatic increase in online hate messages,” Commissioner Bell said.