Australia’s Parliament debates new anti-hate speech and gun laws after Sydney attack

Associated Press (AP)CenterEN 3 min read 100% complete by By ROD MCGUIRKJanuary 20, 2026 at 09:23 AM

AI Summary

medium article 3 min

Following a deadly attack on a Jewish festival in Sydney last month, the Australian Parliament is debating and passing new gun and anti-hate speech laws. The attack, which killed 15 people, was reportedly inspired by the Islamic State group. The new gun laws introduce stricter ownership rules and a government-funded buyback program. The anti-hate speech bill aims to outlaw groups that don't meet the criteria of terrorist organizations, such as Hizb ut-Tahrir. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke stated that the alleged gunmen would not have been allowed to possess guns under the proposed laws, as one was not a citizen and the other was previously under ASIO surveillance. The firearms bill has already passed both houses, while the anti-hate speech bill is expected to pass soon.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Bondi Beach 40% Islamic State group 60% Hizb ut-Tahrir ×260% Tony Burke ×370% Sydney ×270% Australian Security Intelligence Organization (ASIO) ×270% Sajid Akram 80% Naveed Akram 80% Parliament of Australia ×380% Australia ×390%

Keywords

gun laws 90% anti-hate speech laws 90% terrorism 70% gun control 60% islamic state 60% antisemitism 60% hizb ut-tahrir 50% parliament 50% gun ownership 50% hate groups 40%