Australia is preparing to strengthen its gun control rules following a deadly attack at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, where police allege a father and son carried out a mass shooting that left 16 people dead and dozens injured.
The incident, described by authorities as one of the country’s worst mass shootings in nearly three decades, took place during a public gathering at the popular beach. Police said the attack lasted around 10 minutes and caused widespread panic among the large crowd present at the time.
According to officials, the older suspect, aged 50, died at the scene, while his 24-year-old son remains in critical condition in hospital. Among those injured were two police officers, who are reported to be in serious but stable condition. Victims ranged in age from children to elderly individuals.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said his government would move quickly to review and tighten national gun laws. Measures under consideration include limiting the number of firearms an individual can own, reviewing licence validity periods, and creating a national firearms register.
“People’s circumstances can change over time,” Albanese said. “Firearm licences should not be open-ended, and safeguards must reflect that reality.”
Police confirmed that the older suspect legally held a firearms licence and had multiple registered weapons. Authorities are now examining whether existing laws adequately monitor licence holders over time.
Investigators said one of the suspects had previously come to the attention of authorities but was not considered an immediate threat. Police have not officially released the names of the individuals involved and said the motive is still under investigation.
Witnesses described scenes of chaos as hundreds of people ran from the beach and nearby streets seeking safety. Several were treated at hospitals across Sydney for injuries related to gunfire and crowd movement.
A civilian who intervened during the attack, reportedly disarming one of the gunmen, has been widely praised for his bravery. He underwent surgery after sustaining gunshot wounds and has since received strong public support.
In the aftermath, mourners gathered at Bondi Beach to lay flowers and pay tribute to the victims. Security was increased in the area, and community leaders called for unity and calm.
Prime Minister Albanese condemned the violence and reiterated the government’s commitment to combating extremism and hate in all forms. “This was an attack on innocent people and on the values Australians hold dear,” he said.
Authorities said a full investigation is ongoing, and further policy announcements are expected in the coming days.