Australia news live: minister refutes ‘troubling’ claim by Bragg that Muslims bear responsibility for Bondi shooting; bushfire smoke over Sydney

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 15 min read 100% complete by Caitlin CassidyJanuary 27, 2026 at 11:48 PM

AI Summary

long article 15 min

Australian Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy refuted claims made by Liberal senator Andrew Bragg that the Muslim community should take responsibility for the Bondi terror attack. Bragg also suggested ensuring government funding doesn't support "hate preachers." Conroy stated that holding the entire Islamic community responsible is unfair and detrimental to social cohesion, emphasizing their value to Australia. Meanwhile, smoke from Victorian bushfires has drifted to Sydney. The Carlisle River fire in Victoria has grown to 11,000 hectares, approximately the size of Paris, and remains uncontrolled. The Insurance Council of Australia estimates bushfire-related costs in Victoria have exceeded $200 million. Israeli President Isaac Herzog will visit Australia in early February.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Paris 30% Israel 40% Victoria ×240% Isaac Herzog 40% Carlisle River ×340% Sydney 50% Islam ×250% Bondi ×360% Muslim community ×370% Andrew Bragg ×270% Pat Conroy ×380% Australia ×490%

Keywords

bondi terror attack 90% muslim community 80% carlisle river fire 80% pat conroy 70% bushfires 70% andrew bragg 60% israeli president 60% social cohesion 50% fire 50%