Australia state to start gun buyback after Bondi attack

New South Wales, Australia's most populous state, will begin a gun buyback program in November, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced Saturday. This initiative is a key reform promised after a mass shooting at Bondi Beach last December that killed 15 people. The attack, described as an antisemitic terrorist incident, prompted New South Wales authorities to pledge significant gun control reforms. The buyback scheme will allow eligible owners to surrender handguns, shotguns, and rifles for cash payments, with amounts varying up to A$1,000 (US$700) depending on the firearm type. "We must do everything we can to make sure the antisemitic terrorist attack in Bondi doesn't happen again," Albanese stated, emphasizing the need for "meaningful nationwide gun reform." New South Wales has already enacted laws limiting individuals to owning a maximum of four guns, with some exceptions for farmers. The buyback targets owners possessing more weapons than permitted under these new regulations. State Premier Chris Minns highlighted the program's goal: "We want those guns handed in, compensated for and safely destroyed." He added, "Fewer dangerous guns in our community means a safer New South Wales." The costs of the buyback will be split between the federal and state governments. While initial plans for a nationwide buyback stalled due to funding and implementation disagreements among states, New South Wales is moving forward with its plan. The gunman, identified as Sajid Akram, 50, was killed by police during the December 14 attack. His son, Naveed, an Australian-born citizen, faces terrorism and 15 murder charges and remains in prison.

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We must do everything we can to make sure the antisemitic terrorist attack in Bondi doesn't happen again.