House of Reps Summary for 19/01/2026

The parliamentary session addressed the tragic Bondi Beach attack, expressing widespread grief, solidarity, and a unified call to combat antisemitism through proposed legislative measures and community action.
  • The parliamentary session on Monday, 19 January 2026, opened with The Speaker, Hon. Milton Dick, acknowledging the tragic Bondi Beach attack on 14 December 2025, which resulted in the loss of 15 innocent lives during a Hanukkah celebration. He expressed condolences to the victims’ families and emphasized the importance of solidarity. (Page 1)
  • Tony Burke MP initiated a condolence motion regarding the Bondi attack, proposing organized discussions and speeches, including those from the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition. (Page 1)
  • Anthony Albanese MP, the Prime Minister, reaffirmed national solidarity in his condolence motion, highlighted the bravery of victims like Boris and Sofia Gurman, and condemned antisemitism. He emphasized the need to ensure the safety of Jewish Australians. (Page 2)
  • Across party lines, members of Parliament expressed grief and solidarity. Sussan Ley MP from the Liberal Party denounced the Bondi attack and recognized the bravery of those who intervened to save lives. (Page 4)
  • Various speeches underscored a united condemnation of antisemitism, with MPs like David Littleproud and Julian Leeser stressing the necessity of addressing radical ideologies and ensuring the protection of Jewish Australians. (Pages 8-10)
  • Michelle Landry, Gordon Reid, and others shared personal stories and called for legislative actions to combat antisemitism, suggesting a royal commission to tackle the root causes of societal hatred. (Pages 11-15)
  • Mark Butler and Tania Plibersek conveyed messages of unity and reiterated the cultural challenges faced following the violence, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity. (Pages 20-23)
  • Emotional tributes detailing the lives of victims like Matilda Britvan were shared, reinforcing a commitment to eradicate antisemitism across Australia. (Pages 25-28)
  • Personal reflections from Morrison and Abdo highlighted experiences within their communities and underscored the bravery displayed during the attack while calling for protective measures against hatred. (Pages 29-34)
  • Tania Lawrence and Cameron Caldwell echoed sentiments about the values of inclusivity in Australia and demanded actionable legislation to ensure community safety. (Pages 34-39)
  • The speeches culminated in a strong, unified message against hatred and a call for decisive governmental actions to prevent future violence. (Pages 39-44)
  • Members from all political backgrounds affirmed their resolve to combat antisemitism, framing the attack as a serious moral challenge and reinforcing the need for national unity against hate. (Page 44)
  • Ms. JORDAN-BAIRD (Page 39), Mr. CHESTER (Page 44), and several others reiterated the need to confront antisemitism and ensure that all Australians can feel safe and included.
  • Ms. KEARNEY (Page 46) expressed personal concerns as a mother, while other MPs like Mr. KENNEDY (Page 48) and Ms. BYRNES (Page 49) honored victims and condemned antisemitism, pushing for proactive measures.
  • Ms. HAINES (Page 50) highlighted the need for unity against antisemitism, and Dr. HUSIC (Page 51) called for action against extremism, emphasizing the societal implications of hate-driven violence.
  • Mr. HASTIE (Page 64) advocated for a royal commission into the issues surrounding the tragedy, while Ms. PAYNE (Page 62) praised first responders’ bravery.
  • A series of urgent calls for action were echoed by Mr. YOUNG (Page 81) and Ms. GEE (Page 84), who stressed the obligation to learn from past mistakes.
  • Final speeches reiterated a unified condemnation of the attack, tying it to broader societal responsibilities. Julian Hill MP highlighted the significant grief felt nationally, while community and parliamentary solidarity was a constant theme. (Pages 89-92)
  • The proceedings concluded with a call to action against antisemitism, emphasizing shared responsibility in promoting safety and cohesion within Australian society, and The Speaker adjourned the House in memory of the victims. (Pages 102)

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