Failed Bombs Preceded Bondi Mass Shooting, Court Documents Reveal
GeokHub
Contributing Writer
SYDNEY — Dec 22, 2025 Homemade explosive devices were thrown at a crowd in Sydney’s Bondi area shortly before a deadly mass shooting earlier this month, but failed to detonate, according to police evidence presented to a court.
The December 14 attack, which targeted a Jewish Hanukkah gathering near Bondi Beach, killed 15 people and injured dozens more. The incident has shocked Australia and prompted renewed political debate over gun laws, public safety and the rise of antisemitism.
Police Detail Alleged Preparations
Court documents released on Monday indicate that two alleged attackers had planned the assault over several months and carried out reconnaissance at the site days before the attack.
Police say the suspects transported weapons and improvised explosive devices to the area on the day of the incident. Authorities allege that the explosive devices were thrown before gunfire began but failed to activate.
One of the alleged attackers, a 50-year-old man, was shot dead by police at the scene. His 24-year-old son has been charged with dozens of offences, including murder and terrorism, and remains in custody.
Investigators said searches later uncovered weapons components and materials linked to the alleged plot at a rental property in Sydney’s southwest.
State Parliament Moves on Gun Laws
In response to the attack, the parliament of New South Wales was recalled to debate emergency legislation aimed at tightening firearm controls and expanding police powers.
The proposed measures would cap the number of firearms individuals can own, limit the public display of extremist symbols, and give police greater authority during protests following terrorism-related incidents.
Although Australia already has some of the world’s strictest gun laws, state officials say the Bondi attack exposed gaps in enforcement. Police data shows that a small number of licensed gun owners in New South Wales possess unusually large collections of firearms.
Premier Chris Minns acknowledged the legislation would be controversial but said it was necessary to protect public safety and preserve social cohesion.
Prime Minister Faces Public Anger
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has come under increasing pressure amid criticism that the federal government has not acted decisively enough to address antisemitism.
Speaking in Canberra on Monday, Albanese expressed regret over the attack and called for national unity.
“As prime minister, I feel the weight of responsibility for an atrocity that occurred while I am in office,” he said, adding that he was sorry for the pain experienced by the Jewish community and the nation as a whole.
A recent opinion poll showed Albanese’s approval rating falling sharply in the days following the attack.
Ongoing Impact and Community Response
Authorities said 13 people remain hospitalised, including four in critical but stable condition. Memorial tributes left at Bondi Beach are being carefully removed and preserved for historical and educational purposes.
The attack continues to shape national debate on extremism, gun ownership and the balance between civil liberties and security in Australia.
