MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) – A government inquiry focused on the rise of antisemitism across Australia, following a tragic mass shooting that left 15 people dead at a Hanukkah celebration in Bondi Beach on December 14, 2025, has recommended prioritizing gun reform. The inquiry, known as the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion, was established in response to the incident involving Sajid and Naveed Akram, who allegedly carried out the attack with firearms legally owned by Sajid.
In her first interim report, released on April 30, 2026, Royal Commissioner Virginia Bell made 14 recommendations to address both gun control and the rising tide of antisemitism, with five of these recommendations being confidential due to national security concerns. The report highlighted a notable increase in antisemitic incidents in Australia since the onset of the Israel-Hamas war on October 7, 2023, and noted that subsequent military actions involving the United States and Israel against Iran in February may have heightened the risk of attacks on the Jewish community in Australia.
Among the recommendations, the inquiry called for the federal and state governments to develop consistent gun laws nationwide and initiate a gun buyback program. The report mentioned that Sajid Akram, who was killed in a police shootout at the crime scene, legally owned the firearms used in the attack. The proposed restrictions would prevent individuals who are not Australian citizens, such as Sajid, from holding gun licenses and would also limit ownership to as few as four firearms per individual. Additionally, periodic reviews of existing gun licenses were recommended.
Proposals for a gun buyback scheme included financial support from the six states and two territories, although some states have expressed unwillingness to participate in the program. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has indicated that his government is committed to implementing all relevant recommendations and aims to work cooperatively with state and territory governments to enact the necessary reforms. Albanese expressed hope that these proposed gun reforms would be adopted, emphasizing their importance for public safety.
In conjunction with the gun law reforms, the government has acknowledged the increasing threats to the Jewish community but noted that the inquiry did not identify any immediate need for urgent security measures. Albanese remarked on the global rise of antisemitism and reiterated that the Australian government is taking steps to address the issue. The report also indicated that the government has allocated 102 million Australian dollars (approximately $73 million) to enhance security at Jewish sites, including synagogues and educational institutions, with the funds managed by the Executive Council of Australian Jewry.
Alex Ryvchin, co-chief executive of the Executive Council, expressed that the report was a crucial element in helping Jewish Australians feel secure once again. He underscored the need for the community to regain a sense of safety to gather without fear during celebrations like Hanukkah. Ryvchin acknowledged the long road ahead toward healing, citing a significant sense of trauma within the community and many unanswered questions.
The Royal Commission’s public hearings are set to commence on the following Monday, marking a critical step in the ongoing inquiry into antisemitism and social cohesion in Australia.
