Story perspectives

Bondi Father, Son Kill 15; Antisemitic Incidents Surge

5/4/2026

Center

Royal Commission Investigates Antisemitism

Father and son Sajid Akram and Naveed Akram perpetrated the Bondi Beach Hanukkah massacre in December, killing 15.
The Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion began its two-week public hearing in Sydney, with a final report due December.
The Executive Council of Australian Jewry logged 2,000 antisemitic incidents this year, up from under 500.
Federal and state officials are reviewing gun-law reforms and a weapons buyback after an interim report.

Right

Commission Holds Hearings

Witnesses described daily antisemitic harassment, from graffiti on cars to school slurs, reaching families and children.
The Royal Commission into antisemitism began a two-week public hearing in Sydney, with a final report scheduled for December 2026.
Alex Ryvchin recalled a 2025 arson attack on his home, saying it signaled catastrophe.
Sheina Gutnick, daughter of a Bondi victim, testified that antisemitic chants threaten her family’s safety.

History

Historical Context

Australia’s response to the 28-April-1996 Port Arthur massacre, where Martin Bryant killed 35 people, led to nationwide firearm restrictions. The tragedy also propelled survivors like Walter Mikac into advocacy for tighter gun laws. This legacy of decisive reform shapes today’s ongoing national debates on broader hate-crime prevention and public safety.

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Royal Commission Investigates Antisemitism

Father and son Sajid Akram and Naveed Akram perpetrated the Bondi Beach Hanukkah massacre in December, killing 15.
The Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion began its two-week public hearing in Sydney, with a final report due December.
The Executive Council of Australian Jewry logged 2,000 antisemitic incidents this year, up from under 500.
Federal and state officials are reviewing gun-law reforms and a weapons buyback after an interim report.

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