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Prime Minister Anthony Albanese unveiled new hate speech legislation Thursday in response to a terror attack that killed 15 people at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, but declined to recall Parliament or establish a Royal Commission despite mounting political pressure and accusations his government ignored warning signs.
The reforms, developed by the National Security Committee, include creating aggravated offenses for leaders who promote violence, increased penalties for incitement, and provisions allowing authorities to list organizations engaged in hate speech. A narrow federal offense for serious racial vilification will also be developed.
Albanese defended his government’s response to antisemitism, noting Australia had already outlawed Nazi symbols and became “the first government to legislate on hate speech.” However, he acknowledged “there’s more that we can do” following Sunday’s massacre during Hanukkah celebrations.
Alleged gunman Naveed Akram, 24, faces 59 charges including 15 counts of murder after emerging from a medically induced coma Tuesday. Seventeen victims remain hospitalized, with one listed in critical condition.
Former treasurer Josh Frydenberg challenged the government’s timeline and transparency, demanding immediate accountability through a Royal Commission. In an emotional address at the attack site, Frydenberg accused officials of allowing Australia to be “radicalised” while ignoring intelligence warnings.
“What warnings did the government have? What could it have done to prevent that event last Sunday?” Frydenberg asked, calling for deportation of hate preachers and stronger immigration controls.
Opposition Leader Sussan Ley joined the Royal Commission calls, but Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke rejected the proposal, citing potential delays. Burke has declined to answer questions about his handling of security threats prior to the attack.
Investigators are examining whether the alleged shooters’ month-long visit to extremism hotspots in the southern Philippines should have triggered financial monitoring alerts under existing money laundering laws.
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