Australia has been shaken to the core by the Bondi terrorist attack.
It was an attack not only on our country, but on our values and our way of life.
15 innocent lives have been lost. Dozens of people have been injured, many critically. An entire community has been devastated.
Our hearts go out to our Jewish friends, and the NSW Nationals stand united with our Jewish community and all Australians whose lives have forever been affected.
In the wake of this tragedy, the NSW Premier today introduced a Bill in the NSW Parliament. Prior to the introduction of the Bill the Minns Labor Government failed to meaningfully consult with regional communities.
The NSW Nationals were prepared to support proposed legislation banning hate symbols, hate speech and illegal assembly should the legislation have separated these issues from the distinctly different issue of gun reform.
The NSW Nationals Parliamentary team will not be supporting the Bill that uses gun reforms as a political tool rather than addressing the real issue of antisemitism.
Let's be clear. What happened in Bondi was a terrorist attack, fueled by antisemitism. Changing firearm laws will not stop terrorist attacks. The root cause of that terrorism must be addressed in the first instance - and that is antisemitism.
For over two years the Minns Labor Government failed to act. Jew hatred has been allowed to flourish and fester on Labor's watch following the Opera House riot and their failure to prevent rallies and marches focusing on flags and slogans clearly violating the rights of our Jewish friends within Australia.
The NSW Nationals will always prioritise the safety of our communities and law-abiding citizens.
