NSW Considers Army Deployment, Increased Armed Police in Response to Bondi Beach Attack
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NSW Premier Chris Minns is weighing unprecedented security measures, including the potential deployment of the army to Jewish areas, following the recent terrorist attack at Bondi Beach. The measures, announced at a press conference on Sunday, signal a significant shift in the state’s approach to security and a commitment to rebuilding confidence within the Jewish community.
Heightened Security Concerns Following Chanukah Attack
The response comes after a November 26 warning from the Jewish Community Security Group NSW (CSG NSW) alerted NSW Police to a heightened risk of violent antisemitism during the Chanukah by the Sea event. The attack, which tragically unfolded on December 14, underscores the urgency of the situation and the need for a comprehensive reassessment of security protocols.
“The situation as it currently stands, it can’t continue… there’s a big challenge ahead of us to rebuild Jewish life in Sydney,” the premier stated. “So I’m not going to take anything off the table.”
Army Deployment Under Consideration
While no final decisions have been made, the premier confirmed that discussions regarding the deployment of troops are ongoing. “We’re in discussions about it [army deployment]. I’m not prepared to front run it because obviously that’s a change for us,” he explained. This consideration reflects the gravity of the threat and the willingness to explore all available options to ensure public safety.
Visible Increase in Armed Police Presence
Sydneysiders can expect a more visible and heavily armed police presence, particularly leading up to and following New Year’s Eve. Officers will be authorized to carry long-armed firearms, a departure from standard practice.
“We haven’t normally seen on the streets of Sydney, long-armed firearms, but NSW Police will have them and that will be confronting for some people,” the premier acknowledged. However, he emphasized that this measure is “absolutely necessary” to restore community confidence.
Snipers were deployed on rooftops and heavily-armed officers were visible during last Sunday’s Day of Reflection, an event held to honor the victims of the December 14 mass shooting. .
Arming Community Security Groups
In addition to bolstering police resources, the government is also considering arming the CSG NSW. The premier noted that the CSG had been in contact with NSW Police prior to the attack, but that existing security measures proved insufficient.
“Now that means a root and branch change to security protocols and provisions in place,” he said. “It also means we need to have a longer, deeper look at arming CSG. Now that is a step that we haven’t taken in the past.”
Crackdown on Hate Preachers
The government is also taking a firm stance against hate speech, following the closure of an illegal prayer hall linked to Islamic preacher Wisam Haddad. The premier vowed unrelenting action against “hate preachers” spreading racism.
“No organisation that preaches hate should have access to any government money under any circumstances,” he asserted. He indicated plans to introduce legislation for tougher penalties, including the immediate shutdown of facilities by disconnecting utilities.
The premier’s announcements signal a decisive response to the Bondi Beach attack and a commitment to safeguarding the community. The coming weeks will be critical as NSW implements these significant security changes.
