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Australia Passes Gun Reform After Bondi Attack, Sets National Day of Mourning

Australia's lower house of parliament has passed gun reform legislation in response to last month's deadly Bondi Beach terror attack. The government has declared January 22 a National Day of Mourning, with landmarks to be illuminated and flags flown at half-mast. A commemorative installation called the 15 Pillars of Light will be held across the nation as a symbol of remembrance. Negotiations between the Labor government and the Coalition are ongoing to secure the bill's passage through the Senate.

Key Points: Australia Gun Reform Passes Lower House After Bondi Shooting

  • Gun reform passes lower house
  • National Day of Mourning declared for Jan 22
  • 15 Pillars of Light memorial planned
  • Deal between Labor and Coalition near
2 min read

Australia's gun reform legislation passes lower house of Parliament

Australia's gun reform legislation advances as the nation declares a National Day of Mourning for the Bondi Beach terror attack victims.

"National institutions in Canberra, as well as New South Wales will be illuminated as a symbol of light - Prime Minister's Office"

Canberra, January 20

As Australia seeks to tighten its noose on gun laws following the Bondi beach shooting, the federal government's gun reform legislation has passed the lower house of parliament and will move to the Senate, as per ABC News.

Meanwhile, the Labor party has also introduced hate laws into the House of Representatives; however, the Coalition's position on the bill remains unclear.

Meanwhile, as per ABC News, a deal between the Labor and coalition appears within reach, and negotiations are on. The Liberal Party has agreed to a list of changes to the proposed reforms, while the Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has declared today as the deadline for them to pass.

The laws were introduced as part of the federal government's response to last month's Bondi beach terror attack which killed 15. The Australian Government announced a National Day of Mourning on January 22 to honour the victims and all those impacted by the Bondi Beach terrorist attack, a statement by the Prime Minister's Office said.

"National institutions in Canberra, as well as New South Wales will be illuminated as a symbol of light on the evening of Thursday 22 January 2026. Institutions around Australia are encouraged to participate," the statement read.

A commemorative installation, 15 Pillars of Light will be held in Canberra and across Australia. Each pillar will serve a visible symbol of mourning, remembrance and national solidarity. The Bondi Beach Attack Memorial Event, which is being organised by the Chabad of Bondi on Thursday, will be recognised as a National Event.

As a mark of mourning and respect and in accordance with protocol, the Australian National Flag will be flown at half-mast on the National Day of Mourning.

December 14, 2025, marked the first night of Hannukah, and to celebrate, more than 1,000 people gathered at Sydney's Bondi Beach, as per CNN.

The two suspected gunmen are 50-year-old Sajid Akram, who was killed exchanging gunfire with police; and his 24-year-old son Naveed Akram, who was taken in custody at the hospital, as per CNN.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Strict gun laws are the need of the hour everywhere. While the political negotiations are important, the focus should remain on preventing such tragedies. The 'Pillars of Light' is a beautiful way to remember the victims.
D
David E
As someone living in Sydney, this hits close to home. The bipartisan effort gives me hope. The hate laws being introduced alongside are crucial—addressing the weapon and the ideology behind its use.
A
Aditya G
A tough but necessary step by the Australian government. My only respectful criticism is the deadline pressure—such important laws need thorough debate, not rushed passage. But overall, a strong response to a terrible event.
S
Sarah B
The national symbolism—half-mast flags, pillars of light—is so important for healing. It shows the country is united in grief. Hope the Senate passes this legislation smoothly.
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Karthik V
This is how a democracy should function after a crisis. Swift legislative action combined with national mourning. Australia setting an example. Our thoughts are with the families who lost loved ones.

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