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Updated 21 December 2025 - Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has ordered a sweeping examination of Australia's security agencies following the deadly Bondi Beach shooting, which authorities have classified as a terrorist incident.
Government announces security overhaul
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has directed a comprehensive review of the nation's police and intelligence agencies in response to last Sunday's mass shooting at a Jewish festival in Sydney's Bondi Beach. The attack, which left 15 people dead, has been officially designated a terrorist act linked to Islamic State ideology.
Albanese described the atrocity as evidence of a "rapidly changing security environment" in Australia, emphasizing the need for agencies to be fully prepared. The review, due for completion by April 2026, will assess whether federal law enforcement and intelligence bodies possess the necessary legal powers, organizational structures, and information-sharing protocols to counter extremist threats.
"The Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet will examine whether our agencies have the right tools to keep Australians safe in the wake of this horrific antisemitic attack,"
Anthony Albanese, Australian Prime Minister
Public backlash and national mourning
Albanese faced visible hostility during a national day of reflection held on Sunday. As he arrived at a memorial event in Sydney, a crowd erupted in boos and jeers, with one attendee shouting, "Blood on your hands." Another individual was swiftly restrained by police after attempting to approach the prime minister. Albanese's wife, Jodie Haydon, was seen offering support as he was escorted to a VIP seating area.
A nationwide minute of silence was observed at 18:47 local time (07:47 GMT), marking the exact moment the attack began. Governor-General Samantha Mostyn addressed a vigil in Bondi organized by the National Council of Jewish Women Australia, where participants wore white as a symbol of peace. She acknowledged the Jewish community's integral role in Australia's national identity, stating, "You are part of the belonging story and the success of this country."
Suspect charged, gun laws under scrutiny
The alleged gunman, 24-year-old Naveed Akram, has been charged with 59 offences, including 15 counts of murder and one count of committing a terrorist act. His father, Sajid Akram, was among those killed during the rampage.
In the aftermath of Australia's deadliest mass shooting in nearly 30 years, the federal government has pledged to strengthen gun control measures. Meanwhile, the premier of New South Wales is advocating for stricter laws targeting hate speech.
Community resilience amid grief
Despite the lingering shock and disbelief, signs of normalcy returned to Bondi Beach over the weekend. Surfers, runners, and dog-walkers reappeared along the promenade, while children's surf club activities-locally known as "nippers"-resumed on Sunday. Steve Larnach, president of North Bondi Surf Life Saving, told the BBC that the decision to proceed with the events was made in consultation with the Jewish community, which expressed strong support.
"We were aware of the sensitivity, and we asked for their opinion. They were very supportive and extremely grateful for what we did."
Steve Larnach, President, North Bondi Surf Life Saving
Larnach also noted that lifeguard volunteers were among the first responders at the scene, providing critical first aid. One lifesaver was widely praised after being photographed sprinting from a nearby beach with a first aid kit.
Geraldine Nordfeldt, who attended the nippers event with her daughter, emphasized the importance of reclaiming routine. "You can't stay away, you can't let fear win. The beach is the Australian way of life, and we all love it," she told the BBC.
