Australia's prime minister Anthony Albanese said he was "profoundly sorry" on Thursday for failing to prevent the Bondi Beach mass shooting, as the country came together to mourn the 15 people killed in the attack. Flags flew at half-mast nationwide during a national day of mourning, culminating in a memorial service at Sydney's Opera House.
Speaking directly to families of the victims, Albanese offered a deeply personal apology. "You came to celebrate a festival of light and freedom and you left with the violence of hatred," he said, referring to the Hanukkah celebration targeted in the December 14 attack. "I am deeply and profoundly sorry that we could not protect your loved ones from this evil," he added, drawing sustained applause from the audience.
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Police say a father and son carried out the shooting, Australia's worst mass killing in decades, and that the pair were inspired by Islamic State. The government has described the attack as an act of terrorism aimed at Jewish Australians, sending shockwaves through a nation unaccustomed to large-scale gun violence.
The memorial was marked by candle lighting, Jewish prayers and video tributes, alongside speeches from lawmakers. A minute's silence was observed across the country, including on national television, at sporting events such as the Australian Open, and at landmarks illuminated in cities from Melbourne to Perth.
The attack has reignited debate over antisemitism and gun control in Australia. Critics say the government failed to act decisively enough before the shooting, while Albanese's administration insists it has since moved swiftly, tightening background checks for gun licences and advancing laws to make it easier to prosecute hate speech offences.