Australia’s federal parliament on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, voted to tighten gun control laws in Canberra, responding to the December 14, 2025, Bondi shooting that killed 15 people at a Jewish gathering in Sydney, as the government moves to strengthen public safety and prevent similar attacks. The House of Representatives approved the proposed reforms after an emotional debate, with lawmakers citing public concern over gaps in the current firearms licensing system. The Bondi attack, one of the deadliest in recent years, reignited national discussions about gun access despite Australia’s trad

Australia’s federal parliament on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, voted to tighten gun control laws in Canberra, responding to the December 14, 2025, Bondi shooting that killed 15 people at a Jewish gathering in Sydney, as the government moves to strengthen public safety and prevent similar attacks. The House of Representatives approved the proposed reforms after an emotional debate, with lawmakers citing public concern over gaps in the current firearms licensing system. The Bondi attack, one of the deadliest in recent years, reignited national discussions about gun access despite Australia’s traditionally strict laws.

A visitor places a pebble at a memorial site in remembrance to the lives lost during the Bondi Beach mass shooting on December 14, 2025, in Sydney, Australia.

Under the new measures, background checks for gun licences will be strengthened through greater use of intelligence and law-enforcement data. Authorities aim to better identify individuals who may pose a risk before they are allowed to own firearms. The legislation also supports a national gun buyback scheme targeting weapons that are newly restricted or deemed unnecessary.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s government said the reforms are designed to close loopholes and reinforce Australia’s long-standing commitment to gun control. While some opposition lawmakers questioned enforcement details, there was broad agreement on the need for action. The bill now moves to the Senate, where it is expected to pass, clearing the way for tighter nationwide gun regulations.

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