SYDNEY: Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Thursday pledged a crackdown on hate speech and violent extremism following a deadly attack on a Jewish holiday gathering at Sydney’s Bondi Beach. The announcement came as the youngest of the 15 victims was laid to rest, deepening national grief and anger.
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The attack occurred on Sunday when alleged father-and-son gunmen opened fire during Hanukkah celebrations attended by hundreds of people. Authorities say the shooting, which has shocked Australia, appears to have been inspired by the Islamic State and has heightened fears over rising anti-Semitism in the country.
🚨🇦🇺 Australian Government to introduce strictest ‘Hate Speech Laws’ ever seen
“Increase penalties for hate speech”
“Making hate an aggregating factor when adjudicating crimes online”
“Hate based on Race or advocating racial supremacy”
Listen to PM Anthony Albanese – bringing… pic.twitter.com/iVi5QExJJ9
— Concerned Citizen (@BGatesIsaPyscho) December 18, 2025
Facing criticism from Jewish community leaders for not acting decisively enough, Albanese said the government would introduce legislation to make it easier to charge individuals promoting hate speech and violence. He said penalties would be increased, visa cancellations or refusals streamlined, and mechanisms developed to target organisations whose leaders engage in hate speech.
“Australians are shocked and angry. I am angry,” Albanese said at a news conference. “It is clear we need to do more to combat this evil scourge.” He added that his government had consistently denounced anti-Semitism and pointed to earlier steps, including laws criminalising hate speech and the expulsion of Iran’s ambassador last year.
Despite these measures, anti-Semitic incidents have continued to rise. On Thursday, Australian Federal Police said a 19-year-old man would face court after allegedly making anti-Semitic threats against a Jewish passenger on a flight from Bali to Sydney.
Meanwhile, mourners gathered for the funeral of 10-year-old Matilda, the youngest victim of the attack. Yellow toy bees adorned her coffin, reflecting her middle name, Bee, while mourners wore yellow and bee-themed stickers in tribute.
Police allege the attack was carried out by Sajid Akram, 50, who was shot dead at the scene, and his 24-year-old son Naveed Akram, now charged with multiple murder and terror offences. Investigations are continuing into possible Islamic State links, including alleged connections to militants in the Philippines.