Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was met with boos and insults as he arrived at a vigil for victims of last week’s deadly gun attack at Bondi Beach, reflecting public anger over what critics say is a failure to adequately address rising antisemitism.
Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese attends the ‘Light Over Darkness’ vigil on Sunday honoring victims and survivors of a deadly mass shooting during a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach on December 14, in Sydney, Australia. Hollie Adams/Reuters)
Albanese was jeered when his name was announced on stage, while New South Wales Premier Chris Minns received cheers and a standing ovation. Minns was praised for his visible support of the Jewish community, with speakers thanking him for attending funerals, synagogue services, and community events in the days following the attack.
People attend the ‘Light Over Darkness’ vigil on Sunday honoring victims and survivors of the deadly mass shooting during a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach on December 14, in Sydney, Australia. Hollie Adams/Reuters)
The vigil formed part of a national day of reflection for those killed and injured in the Bondi Beach shooting, where two gunmen opened fire during a Hanukkah celebration. Australians were encouraged to light candles in remembrance, and a minute’s silence was observed at 6.47pm local time.
Before attending the vigil, Albanese announced a review of Australia’s police and intelligence agencies. The review, led by a former head of the country’s spy agency, will examine whether federal authorities have the necessary powers, structures, and information-sharing arrangements to keep the public safe. Albanese said the findings would be delivered by the end of April.
The attack has exposed gaps in gun-licensing assessments and coordination between agencies, despite Australia’s strict firearms laws. Authorities believe the attackers were inspired by Islamic State ideology, and IS-related symbols were reportedly found in their vehicle.
Public frustration has grown within Australia’s Jewish community, with many blaming the government for failing to curb a rise in antisemitic incidents since the start of the Israel-Gaza war. Albanese has since pledged to strengthen hate-speech laws.
In response, the New South Wales government announced plans to introduce legislation banning the display of symbols and flags associated with terrorist organizations, including Islamic State, Hamas, and Hezbollah.
One of the alleged gunmen was shot dead at the scene by police. His son, who survived after being placed in a coma, has since been charged with dozens of offences, including murder and terrorism, and remains under police guard in hospital.
