NSW Premier Chris Minns has declared the state needs a royal commission into last Sunday's horrific terrorist attack at Bondi Junction, as he announces sweeping new laws to combat hate speech and bolster police powers.
A Call for Calm and a Comprehensive Inquiry
Speaking ahead of planned rallies, Premier Minns urged for calm and unity, stating "Things have changed since Sunday. We don't live in that world anymore." He emphasised the necessity of a thorough investigation, saying, "I think we need a royal commission. We need a comprehensive look at this horrible terrorism event to ensure that we do everything possible so that it doesn't happen again." Prime Minister Anthony Albanese pledged his full support, confirming the federal and state governments are working "in lockstep."
New Laws to Target Hate Symbols and Concealed Identities
From Monday, the New South Wales government will enact a suite of new measures. These include a ban on displaying a range of hate symbols in public, specifically including the ISIS flag, which was seen on the attacker's vehicle. Police will also receive new powers to remove face coverings from protesters suspected of committing an offence, to help identify those responsible for offensive conduct or racist behaviour.
Certain chants and phrases will be outlawed as hate speech. "Horrific recent events have shown that the chant, 'globalise the Intifada', is hate speech, and it encourages violence in our community. The chant will be banned alongside other hateful comments," Minns stated.
A City in Mourning Prepares for a Day of Reflection
The community continues to grieve, with mourners adding flowers and tributes at Bondi Beach throughout a rainy Saturday. The final victim has been named as 68-year-old grandmother Tania Tretiak from Randwick. Among the 14 patients still in Sydney hospitals is 30-year-old Israeli national Gefen Bitton, who was shot while trying to help hero security guard Ahmed al-Ahmed. His family said he "put his own life at risk with his selfless actions."
Sunday will be observed as a national day of reflection. The Premier and Prime Minister have asked Australians to honour the victims and stand with the Jewish community. At 6:47pm, exactly one week after the attack, a minute's silence will be observed, and people are invited to light a candle. Flags will fly at half-mast, buildings will be illuminated in yellow, and a community memorial event will be held at Bondi Pavilion, which the Prime Minister will attend.
Waverley Council will begin removing the vast floral tributes from Monday, but not before a permanent record is made. The Jewish Museum is collecting cards and items for preservation, with some to be included in a future memorial.
