The Australian Parliament has tightened gun control and penalties for extremism

Australia is responding to the most tragic shooting in a decade by tightening gun laws and hate crime legislation. Following the attack in Bondi Beach, where 15 people were killed during a Jewish festival, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called an emergency session of parliament.

The result is two new laws. The gun law introduces a nationwide buyback program, stricter screening of license holders, and import restrictions.

The aim is to remove weapons from the hands of potentially dangerous individuals, especially given that the attackers in Bondi had legally obtained their weapons. Australia currently has more than four million firearms.

The Hate Crimes Act, in turn, tightens penalties, for example, up to twelve years in prison if the target is a religious authority. It also allows for the banning of extremist groups.

It has also gained support from the opposition after amendments that require the government to consult with the opposition leader on the classification of groups.

New South Wales, in its own reforms, restricts the possession of four weapons and strengthens the powers of the police to suppress protests during designated terrorist attacks.

(reuters, max)