The independent MP for Wentworth, Allegra Spender, whose electorate includes Bondi, has raised concerns that migrants could become a political target in the wake of the recent terror attack. Speaking to Guardian Australia's political editor, Tom McIlroy, she criticised the rushed passage of gun and hate speech reforms through parliament, arguing that politics can often stand in the way of community safety.
Parliament returned for the 2026 session with an eventful start, as MPs offered condolences for the victims of the Bondi attack and swiftly passed hurried reforms on guns and hate speech. However, the national day of mourning on Thursday saw the Coalition split for the second time, with Sussan Ley's leadership now effectively over.
Spender expressed fears that in the current climate of fear and grief, migrants could be unfairly targeted as a political scapegoat. She emphasised the need for measured responses that prioritise community cohesion over divisive rhetoric.
