Australia is set to implement a nationwide program to buy back guns following a tragic incident at a Hanukkah event in Bondi Beach, Sydney, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Friday. The government anticipates collecting and disposing of hundreds of thousands of firearms through this initiative, which is reminiscent of the gun law reforms enacted after the 1996 massacre in Port Arthur, Tasmania. Albanese emphasized the need to remove more guns from the streets in light of the recent events at Bondi.
The attack at the Hanukkah celebration resulted in the deaths of fifteen individuals and numerous injuries, carried out by two gunmen. The main assailant, a 50-year-old who held a firearms license and owned six registered guns, was killed during the incident. With an estimated four million firearms currently in circulation in the country, the government aims to target surplus, newly-prohibited, and illegal firearms in the buyback scheme, with costs to be shared between federal and state authorities.
In the wake of the Port Arthur tragedy, Australia previously conducted a successful gun buyback program, leading to the surrender of approximately 640,000 prohibited firearms nationwide at a cost of around $304 million Aus. Neighboring New Zealand also implemented significant gun reforms, including buyback initiatives, following the 2019 Christchurch terror attack.
Amid mounting criticism regarding a rise in antisemitism, Prime Minister Albanese pledged to strengthen hate laws in response to the Gaza conflict. The government has condemned antisemitism and passed legislation criminalizing hate speech while taking action against Iran for directing antisemitic attacks. Investigations suggest that the Bondi shooting may have been inspired by ISIS, prompting increased police presence and vigilance to prevent further violence.
Recent police actions in Sydney resulted in the detention of seven individuals suspected of planning a violent act, although they may be released pending further assessment. While no direct link has been established between these individuals and the Bondi gunmen, similarities in ideologies were noted. Additionally, heightened security measures have been implemented at Sydney’s Lakemba mosque and other potential targets to ensure public safety.
In a show of solidarity and remembrance, Australia’s Jewish community gathered for prayers at Bondi Beach, while swimmers and surfers formed a poignant circle in the sea to honor the victims of the tragic mass shooting. Community leaders expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support amid concerns over escalating antisemitic incidents in the country.