NSW government accepts all recommendations from Bondi Junction inquest

The New South Wales government has committed to implementing all recommendations directed at it from the coronial inquest into the Westfield Bondi Junction tragedy. Six months after the findings were released, the government announced its acceptance of the proposed measures aimed at enhancing public safety and mental health responses.

The inquest examined the April 13, 2024, attack where Joel Cauchi, described as "floridly psychotic," murdered six people and injured ten others before being shot dead by police. The proceedings, which spanned five weeks in 2025, heard from key figures to identify systemic failings and opportunities for improvement.

Of the 23 recommendations made by NSW State Coroner Magistrate Teresa O'Sullivan, 13 were directed to the state government, including its police force and ambulance service. The government stated it fully supports 11 recommendations and two in principle. These include proposals for collaboration between police forces and the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists to assess the role of psychiatrists in weapons licensing, and the establishment of a working group to consider this. The government also acknowledged the need for improved short-term and long-term accommodation for individuals with mental health issues and homelessness, with NSW Health and Homes NSW prioritizing investment in relevant housing approaches.

Further recommendations call for NSW Health to provide advice on the demand for mental health outreach services, the resources needed to meet this demand, and a model for caring for individuals with complex severe mental illness. The coroner also urged NSW Health to ensure clinicians have access to evidence-based guidelines on "de-prescribing" psychotropic medication. The government's support for these recommendations signifies a commitment to addressing the complex issues highlighted by the tragedy.