A government inquiry into a rise in antisemitism across Australia, preceding a mass shooting that claimed 15 lives at a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney, has recommended that authorities prioritise gun reform. The Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion was established after father and son Sajid and Naveed Akram allegedly opened fire with legally-owned guns at the Bondi Beach event on December 14, 2025, an attack authorities say was inspired by the Islamic State group.
Key Recommendations
Royal Commissioner Virginia Bell presented 14 recommendations in her first interim report on Thursday, with five withheld for national security reasons. The report highlighted a sharp rise in antisemitic incidents in Australia since the Israel-Hamas war began on October 7, 2023, and noted that the US and Israel's attack on Iran in February likely increased risks for the Australian Jewish community.
Gun Law Reforms
The recommendations include implementing nationally consistent gun laws and a gun buyback scheme. Sajid Naveed, a licensed shooter who legally owned the weapons used, was shot dead by police. Under proposed federal changes, he would have been barred from holding a gun license as a non-citizen. His son Naveed Akram survived and faces charges including committing a terrorist act, 15 counts of murder, and 40 counts of attempted murder, with no pleas entered.
The government proposes limiting gun ownership to as few as four firearms and introducing periodic license reviews. A buyback scheme would compensate owners surrendering weapons, with costs shared between the federal government and states, though some states have refused to pay.
Government Response
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed his government would implement all relevant recommendations. He expressed hope for the proposed reforms, noting Australia's 30th anniversary of its deadliest mass shooting in 1996, which led to a landmark firearms agreement banning rapid-fire rifles. Albanese stated, "The nation is safer because of that." He also noted that despite rising risks, the report found no urgent changes needed to keep Australians safe.
Protecting Jewish Sites
The government has allocated AU$102 million ($73 million) to boost security at Jewish sites, including synagogues and schools, administered by the Executive Council of Australian Jewry. Co-chief executive Alex Ryvchin described the report as an important step toward making Jewish Australians feel safe again, adding, "It’s going to be a long process to get us to that point." Public hearings in the inquiry begin next Monday.
