Australian PM apologizes for Bondi Beach shooting, announces reforms
Speaking at a news conference in Canberra, Albanese said, "I feel the weight of responsibility for an atrocity that happened whilst I'm prime minister. And I'm sorry." He emphasized that his government would work daily to ensure the safety of all Australian citizens.
The proposed measures focus on strengthening protections against hate crimes and extremist activity, with plans for wide consultation with affected communities and Parliament. Key initiatives include creating an aggravated offense for hate preaching that advocates violence against protected groups and increasing penalties for hate speech, violent advocacy, or property destruction.
The government is also considering granting authorities the power to cancel visas for individuals engaged in hate speech, displaying hate symbols, or affiliating with terrorist or prohibited organizations. Additionally, amendments to the Customs Act are under review to ban extremist materials and hate symbols.
Albanese noted that state and territory officials are coordinating reforms to gun laws alongside these measures. He also confirmed that Australia’s federal intelligence and law enforcement agencies will undergo a review following the December 14 shooting, which claimed 15 lives and injured 42 others. The review is expected to be completed and published in April.
Authorities have described the attack, carried out by a man and his son, as a "terrorist attack."
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