Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the country’s Jewish community as “completely unbreakable” following a memorial at a Sydney synagogue for victims of a mass shooting at a Bondi Beach Hanukkah celebration. The attack, Australia’s deadliest in nearly three decades, is being treated as a terrorist act targeting Jews. Authorities have increased security nationwide to prevent further antisemitic violence.

Albanese said the gathering at Sydney’s Great Synagogue highlighted the community’s resilience, unity, and faith. He emphasised the event reflected “comfort, love, and strength” amid national mourning for the 15 people killed and dozens injured, allegedly by a father and son.

Under pressure over rising antisemitism since the conflict in Gaza, Albanese pledged to strengthen hate laws. New South Wales authorities also announced reforms, including tighter hate and gun control measures. A bill is set to ban public displays of terrorist symbols, including those linked to al-Qaeda, Hamas, and Islamic State, which state officials say are intended to intimidate.

Bondi Beach resumed normal surf lifesaving patrols after a pause following the shooting. Volunteers and professionals observed two minutes of silence, while members of the Jewish community held prayers on the beach and swimmers formed a circle in the water to honour victims.

Police killed alleged gunman Sajid Akram, 50, at the scene, while his son Naveed, 24, who survived police gunfire, faces 59 charges, including murder and terrorism. Authorities believe the pair was inspired by Islamic State, with related flags found in their vehicle.