In response to the deadly mass shooting at a Jewish festival at Bondi Beach, the Australian Parliament has passed new laws aimed at tightening gun control and strengthening hate crime legislation. The measures come after last month’s tragic attack left fifteen people dead and sparked nationwide debate over public safety, extremism, and firearms regulation.

Parliament Approves New Gun and Hate Crime Measures

On Tuesday, 20 January 2026, the House of Representatives voted in favor of a comprehensive package of reforms, including:

• A national gun buyback scheme targeting illegal and high-risk firearms.
• Tighter background checks for gun licence applicants, incorporating intelligence assessments.
• Stricter laws against hate speech and hate-motivated crimes, aiming to prevent attacks fueled by ideology or prejudice.

These legislative reforms are part of a broader effort by the government to address both the method and motivation behind violent attacks, according to Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke. “The Bondi Beach attack was carried out by individuals with hate in their hearts and guns in their hands. It demands a comprehensive response from government,” Burke stated.

Details of the Bondi Beach Attack

The Bondi Beach massacre occurred on 14 December 2025 during a Hanukkah celebration. Two gunmen, later identified as Sajid Akram and his son Naveed, opened fire on festival attendees. Most of the victims were Jewish. The attack was eventually stopped by a Muslim bystander, Ahmed al-Ahmed, who has since been hailed as a hero for his bravery.

Authorities revealed that the attackers were inspired by the ISIL (ISIS) terrorist group, highlighting concerns about the spread of violent extremist ideologies in Australia.

Legislative Process and Political Debate

The reforms passed in the lower house must now be approved by the Senate, with a vote expected shortly. Support and opposition are largely divided along party lines:

• Gun control laws are expected to pass with support from the Greens and some crossbench members, but face opposition from the conservative Liberal-National Coalition.
• Anti-hate crime laws are likely to gain backing from the Liberal Party, despite disagreements on firearms legislation.

The new gun laws will allow authorities to conduct enhanced background checks for gun licences, incorporating information from intelligence and law enforcement agencies to identify potential risks before issuing permits.

Shadow Attorney General Andrew Wallace of the Liberals criticized the bill, saying it shows “the contempt the government has for the million gun owners of Australia.”

Government Response and Urgency

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese recalled Parliament early from its summer recess to conduct a special two-day session to debate and vote on these urgent reforms. The session underscores the government’s commitment to responding swiftly to violent extremism and public safety concerns following the Bondi attack.

Public Reaction and Security Measures

The Bondi Beach attack has prompted widespread reflection on community safety, terrorism prevention, and gun regulation. Memorials have been held across Sydney, with citizens paying tribute to the victims and calling for stricter laws to prevent future tragedies.

The government has emphasized that the dual focus on gun control and hate crime prevention is critical to countering both the tools and the ideology that fuel attacks of this nature.