Australia’s most populous state, New South Wales, has passed sweeping new gun control and anti-terror legislation in the wake of the deadly Bondi Beach shooting, strengthening firearm restrictions, banning terrorist symbols and expanding police powers to regulate protests.
The New South Wales Parliament approved the Terrorism and Other Legislation Amendment Bill early Wednesday, with the upper house passing it by 18 votes to eight, following its clearance in the lower house a day earlier.
Bipartisan backing, rural opposition
The legislation received bipartisan support from the governing centre-left Labor Party and the opposition Liberal Party. However, the rural-focused National Party opposed key gun reforms, arguing that firearm ownership caps would unfairly affect farmers.
Despite objections, the government said the measures were essential to public safety following one of Australia’s worst mass shootings in decades.
Triggered by Bondi Beach attack
The new laws follow the December 14 mass shooting at a Jewish Hanukkah celebration at Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach, where 15 people were killed and dozens injured. The attack marked Australia’s deadliest shooting in nearly 30 years and triggered nationwide calls for tougher gun control and decisive action against antisemitism.
Police believe the attackers were inspired by the extremist group Islamic State. One of the accused, Sajid Akram (50), was shot dead by police, while his son Naveed (24) has been charged with 59 offences, including murder and terrorism.
Key gun law changes
Under the revised firearm regulations, most individual gun licence holders will be capped at four firearms, while farmers will be allowed to own up to 10 guns, acknowledging occupational needs while tightening oversight.
The government said the caps strike a balance between legitimate rural use and reducing the risk of mass violence.
Expanded police and protest powers
Police will now have the authority to impose restrictions on public protests for up to three months following a declared terror attack. The public display of symbols linked to banned terrorist organisations will also be prohibited.
In addition, the chant “Globalise the intifada”, commonly heard at pro-Palestine demonstrations, will be outlawed, with the government arguing that it promotes violence and social unrest.
A shift in Australia’s security stance
Officials said the legislation reflects a firm stance against extremism while reinforcing Australia’s long-standing commitment to strict gun control.
As New South Wales moves to implement the new measures, the laws are expected to influence broader national debates on public safety, civil liberties and counter-terrorism policy.