Australian federal and state officials have announced expanded restrictions on certain forms of speech, new enforcement powers for federal police, and a national gun buyback program following a terrorist attack targeting a Jewish community event near Sydney’s Bondi Beach.
Authorities say the attack, which killed 15 people, was motivated by antisemitism and inspired by the Islamic State group. One attacker was killed by police at the scene, while a second remains hospitalized under guard and faces multiple terrorism-related charges.
Speaking at a press conference in Canberra, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the federal government and the state of New South Wales are moving to strengthen laws commonly described as “hate speech” legislation, including lowering enforcement thresholds to allow earlier intervention by authorities.
Albanese confirmed that the government is considering restrictions on slogans and expressions officials believe promote violence or intimidation, including the chant “Globalize the intifada.” He said the measures are intended to address what officials describe as an elevated national security threat following the attack.
Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett said the AFP will expand National Security Investigation teams tasked with addressing politically motivated violence, communal violence, and “hate crimes” that do not meet the legal threshold for terrorism.
Barrett said the AFP currently has more than 160 active investigations linked to antisemitism-related activity, with multiple individuals already charged under existing laws. She said the changes would allow authorities to act earlier in cases involving threatening conduct or prohibited symbols.
An Australian Federal Police assistant commissioner outlines expanded “hate disruptor” teams and revised enforcement thresholds during a briefing.
Australia announces crackdown on “hate speech”
They’re about to start arresting people for memes like the UK
RIP… pic.twitter.com/QhlPXISw0B
— Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) December 20, 2025
In addition to speech-related measures, Albanese announced plans for a National Gun Buyback scheme, the largest since Australia’s firearms reforms following the 1996 Port Arthur massacre. Officials said one of the attackers legally possessed multiple firearms, prompting renewed scrutiny of licensing laws.
The government also announced a national Day of Reflection to honor the victims and said discussions are underway with Jewish community leaders regarding a future National Day of Mourning and a permanent memorial at Bondi Beach.
The announcements prompted widespread public reaction online, including commentary on social media platforms following the press conference.
Officials said investigations into the attack remain ongoing.
