The Alannah & Madeline Foundation congratulates the Albanese government on its swift action to introduce the Combatting Antisemitism, Hate and Extremism Bill 2026 in Parliament next week.
The bill, drafted in response to the horrific attack at Bondi Beach last month, includes significant steps to tackle antisemitism but also strengthens national firearm laws through long overdue reforms which deserve support from all political parties and jurisdictions.
In particular, the proposed legislation will:
- Support a national buyback of prohibited and unwanted guns
- Provide for stronger national background checks, including greater information sharing between agencies including ASIO
- Strengthen customs regulations for firearms and create a new Public Safety Test for the importation of firearms
- Create offences aimed at disrupting the process of privately made firearms.
In addition to the Commonwealth reforms, the Foundation calls on all jurisdictions to listen to their communities and support the national package of gun reforms presented to Police Ministers last week.
Sarah Davies, Alannah & Madeline Foundation CEO said:
“As we continue to come to grips with the tragedy that occurred at Bondi last month, it is absolutely clear that the vast majority of Australians want and expect action to protect our community.
“Nothing in the government’s package prevents a farmer, hunter or sporting shooter from pursuing their job or hobby. Tougher background checks, restrictions on the types of firearms used at Bondi and limits on the number of guns someone can own are all reasonable expectations of the community and represent sensible steps that should be supported by governments around Australia.”
Australian Gun Safety Alliance convenor and Alannah & Madeline Foundation advocacy advisor Stephen Bendle said:
“While most political leaders have acted responsibly following the Bondi attacks, the firearm industry has so far failed to accept the overwhelming community outrage and desire for stronger protections.
“Firearm owners are not the victims in this tragedy. This is not a debate about personal rights to high-capacity weapons – this is about ensuring our gun regulations are aligned with community expectations on safety.
“We need to recognise that gun technology has advanced considerably since Port Arthur and reforms like these are long overdue to make sure we stay on top of modern gun design and any loopholes which threaten the safety of Australians.”
About us:
About the Alannah & Madeline Foundation
The Alannah & Madeline Foundation was founded 28 years ago by Walter Mikac AM, and a small group of volunteers in memory of Walter’s young daughters Alannah and Madeline, aged just six and three, who tragically lost their lives along with their mother and 32 others at Port Arthur in Tasmania on 28 April 1996. The Foundation was established with the belief that “all children and young people should be able to live a happy and safe life, free from violence and trauma.” Our mission continues today through our Care, Prevention and Advocacy programs – we fight for their right to be safe, so their future is strong. www.alannahandmadeline.org.au
About the Australian Gun Safety Alliance
The Australian Gun Safety Alliance is a broad coalition of voices representing the interests of the community to ensure we remain vigilant on gun safety. www.gunsafetyalliance.org.au
Contact details:
Lana Burton - Head of Marketing, Alannah & Madeline Foundation
0499 202 001 or [email protected]