Australia will introduce sweeping legal reforms to tighten controls on hate speech and extremist activity, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Thursday, following the country’s deadliest mass shooting in nearly 30 years.
The move comes days after a father-and-son duo allegedly opened fire on crowds celebrating the Jewish festival of Hanukkah at Sydney’s Bondi Beach on Sunday, killing 15 people. Authorities said the attack was inspired by Islamic State ideology, sparking national outrage and renewed concerns over rising antisemitism.
Speaking at a press conference, Albanese said the government plans to introduce legislation that would make it easier to prosecute individuals who promote hate speech or incite violence, impose tougher penalties, and allow authorities to target organisations whose leaders engage in extremist rhetoric.
“Australians are shocked and angry. I am angry,” Albanese said. “It is clear we need to do much more to combat this evil scourge.”
Police allege the attackers were Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveed Akram, 24. Sajid was shot dead by police at the scene, while Naveed was injured and placed in a coma. He was formally charged on Wednesday after regaining consciousness, facing 59 charges including multiple counts of murder and terrorism-related offences.
Meanwhile, the New South Wales government said it will recall the state parliament next week to urgently pass amendments to strengthen gun control laws in response to the attack.
