Australian state reviews gun laws after Bondi Beach tragedy
Illustrative photo: Sydney (Getty Images)
The parliament of the Australian state of New South Wales convened an extraordinary session to consider a package of bills tightening controls on firearms, banning the display of terrorist symbols, and restricting protests following a mass shooting at Bondi Beach, according to Reuters.
The state parliament was convened for two days to debate government initiatives that, among other measures, would introduce limits on firearm ownership, no more than four weapons per individual, or up to ten for certain categories such as farmers.
Australia has some of the world’s strictest gun-control laws following the 1996 mass shooting that killed 35 people. However, authorities say the events at Bondi exposed serious regulatory gaps.
In New South Wales, there is currently no hard cap on the number of firearms a person may own if the owner can justify the need to police.
According to law enforcement data, more than 70 people in the state own over 100 firearms each, and one licensed owner possesses 298 weapons.
One of the attackers in Bondi, Sajid Akram, who was shot dead by police, was carrying six firearms. His 24-year-old son, Naveed Akram, has been charged with 59 counts, including murder and terrorism-related offenses.
The proposed legislation would also expand police powers, including allowing officers to remove masks from participants at protests and rallies.
Chris Minns said he expects resistance from parts of society and some politicians, particularly over restrictions on public gatherings.
Mass shooting at Bondi Beach in Sydney
On Sunday, December 14, 2025, a mass shooting occurred at Bondi Beach during an event marking the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah, leaving dozens dead and many others injured.
Australian police classified the incident as a terrorist attack and an act of antisemitism.
Following the tragedy, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced plans to pursue tougher national gun-control measures. He said the government was prepared to take "all necessary steps," including limiting the number of firearms a licensed owner may possess and reviewing the licensing system itself.
RBC-Ukraine has published a detailed overview of what is known about the brazen antisemitic terrorist attack, described as the second-deadliest mass shooting in Australia’s history.
