Sydney: Australia’s long standing political unity on strict gun control is under strain after the deadly attack at Bondi Beach reignited debate over firearms policy and national security.
The attack took place on December 14 during a Jewish Hanukkah gathering near Bondi Beach in Sydney. Several people were killed and many others injured, making it one of the most serious violent incidents in Australia in decades. The incident has shocked the country and prompted urgent political and public discussions.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the government would push for tougher national gun measures, including tighter limits on the number of firearms an individual can own, stronger background checks, and better coordination between states. He also announced plans for a national gun buyback scheme aimed at reducing the number of high risk weapons in circulation.
The proposals echo reforms introduced after the 1996 Port Arthur massacre, which led to sweeping gun laws backed by both major political parties. Those laws are widely credited with sharply reducing gun violence in Australia.
However, the response this time has revealed growing divisions. Some conservative politicians and minor parties argue that the focus should be on tackling extremism and hate driven violence rather than placing further restrictions on licensed gun owners. They say existing gun laws are already among the toughest in the world.
In New South Wales, the state government has recalled parliament to fast track changes to firearms legislation. Proposed measures include stricter licence reviews, limits on ammunition, and stronger powers for police to suspend or cancel gun permits where risks are identified.
Community groups and gun safety advocates are calling for even broader reforms. Some have urged governments to remove recreational hunting as a valid reason for owning firearms and to strengthen checks linked to domestic violence and mental health concerns.
At the same time, several state leaders are pushing for tougher laws to address hate crimes and antisemitism, arguing that the Bondi Beach attack highlights deeper social and security challenges beyond gun access alone.
Across Sydney, vigils and memorials have been held to honour the victims. Faith leaders and community representatives have called for unity, urging Australians not to allow fear or division to take hold.
While public support for strong gun laws remains high, the political debate shows that achieving the kind of broad consensus seen in the past may now be more difficult. As lawmakers consider their next steps, Australia faces the challenge of balancing gun control, public safety, and social cohesion in a more divided political climate.