The interim report examines the circumstances surrounding the antisemitic Bondi terrorist attack on 14 December 2025 in Sydney, Australia, and considers any other issues requiring urgent or immediate action. The report outlines the threat environment, the security arrangements, the emergency response, the Commonwealth and national counter-terrorism architecture, legislative frameworks, and law enforcement priorities and resourcing for counter-terrorism. It contains 14 recommendations. 

On the evening of 14 December 2025 at Bondi Beach, Sydney, two gunmen opened fire on a crowd that had gathered in Archer Park to celebrate the beginning of the Jewish festival of Chanukah, also known as the festival of lights. Fifteen people were killed, another 40 were wounded and countless others were traumatised having witnessed the slaughter or later having come to learn of it. Sydney’s Jewish community was the evident target of the attack. 

The complete version of the interim report will be provided on a confidential basis to the Australian Government and state governments (the confidential report). Parts of every chapter are contained only in the confidential report as they refer to information that cannot be disclosed publicly.

Key recommendations

• The procedures adopted by NSW Police in respect of Operation Jewish High Holy Days should apply to other high risk Jewish festivals and events, particularly those that have a public facing element.
• Consideration be given to making the Counter-Terrorism Coordinator’s role full-time.
• The Australian Government should consider whether National Security Committee ministers, including the Prime Minister, should participate in a counter-terrorism exercise, along with all National Cabinet members, within nine months of each federal election.
• The Commonwealth and states and territories should prioritise efforts to finalise and implement an updated and nationally consistent National Firearms Agreement.
• The Commonwealth, states and territories should prioritise efforts to implement the proposed National Gun Buyback Scheme.