Australia launches review of police, intelligence after Bondi attack
The attack, which claimed 15 lives after two gunmen—a father and son—opened fire at a Jewish festival, has been officially declared a terrorist incident. Police say the attackers were motivated by “Islamic State ideology.” A national day of reflection will be held on Sunday, with a minute of silence observed at the time the attack began.
Albanese announced that the intelligence review, expected by April 2026, will evaluate whether federal agencies have the proper powers, structures, and processes to combat extremism effectively. “The Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet will examine whether federal law enforcement and intelligence agencies have the right powers, structures, processes and sharing arrangements in place to keep Australians safe in the wake of the horrific antisemitic Bondi Beach terrorist attack,” he said.
The government has also signaled plans to tighten gun regulations, while the New South Wales premier aims to strengthen measures against hate speech. Naveed Akram, 24, has been charged with 59 offenses, including 15 counts of murder and one of committing a terrorist act; his father Sajid was killed during the incident.
Community vigils and acts of remembrance have taken place, including one hosted by the National Council of Jewish Women Australia, attended by Governor-General Samantha Mostyn, who highlighted the importance of the Jewish community’s role in the nation.
Despite the tragedy, local life is slowly resuming. Surf club activities for children, known as “nippers,” continued over the weekend as a sign of resilience. Steve Larnach, president of North Bondi’s Surf Life Saving, said the club sought input from the Jewish community before proceeding and received support. Lifeguard volunteers who responded to the shooting have been praised for their heroic efforts. Geraldine Nordfelft, a parent at the nippers program, emphasized the importance of returning to daily life: “You have to return, you can't stay away, you can't let fear win. The beach is the Australian way of life and we all love it.”
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