• New South Wales Parliament recalls to vote on strict gun laws after Bondi shooting.
• The proposed laws include a cap on firearm ownership and a ban on terror symbols.
• The legislation aims to address rising antisemitism and enhance public safety.

In the wake of the deadly mass shooting at Bondi Beach, which resulted in 15 fatalities during a Jewish celebration, the New South Wales (NSW) Parliament was recalled to vote on stringent gun laws. These laws are considered among the toughest in Australia and include a limit on individual firearm ownership, capping it at four guns, with allowances for up to ten for certain groups like farmers. The NSW Premier, Chris Minns, emphasized the need for these reforms, stating, "We can't pretend that the world is the same as it was before that terrorist incident," according to Channel News Asia and Le Monde.

Additionally, the proposed legislation will implement a ban on the display of terrorist symbols, specifically targeting groups like the Islamic State, whose flag was found in one of the shooter's vehicles. The law also seeks to enhance police powers to restrict protests following any terrorism incident. Ministers have indicated a broader initiative to strengthen hate speech laws, specifically addressing chants that could incite violence, according to Reuters and Le Monde.

The alleged assailant in the Bondi shooting, Sajid Akram, was shot dead by police, while his son, Naveed Akram, is charged with multiple offenses including terrorism and murder. Their ownership of firearms underscores the urgent call for reform, especially as a recent poll revealed that three-quarters of Australians support tougher gun regulations. This reflects a public sentiment that intensifies in light of the tragedy, as highlighted by both Reuters and Channel News Asia.

The Australian federal government is also looking to expand its gun control measures and has announced a significant gun buyback scheme, aiming to remove firearms from public circulation. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's administration, facing scrutiny over its effectiveness in combating rising antisemitism, is balancing between public safety demands and political pressures. Following the Bondi attack, the Prime Minister intends to conduct an independent review rather than convene a royal commission, which is typically more lengthy, according to Reuters and Le Monde.