A tragic act of violence occurred in Sydney this week as two gunmen opened fire during a Chanukah celebration at Bondi Beach, leaving the community in shock. In response, the Alannah & Madeline Foundation is renewing its call for stronger gun laws across Australia, echoing sentiments shared by many who remember the devastating Port Arthur massacre in 1996.
Established nearly 30 years ago following the Port Arthur tragedy, the foundation has been a vocal advocate for safe and responsible gun legislation, aiming to prevent further families from enduring the pain associated with gun violence. The foundation’s founding patron, Walter Mikac, stated that the recent attack has reopened deep wounds for many Australians, emphasizing the urgent need to reinforce existing gun laws.
Calls for Action Amid Rising Gun Ownership
Sarah Davies, CEO of the Alannah & Madeline Foundation, highlighted the expectations of the community for stricter regulations on gun ownership. “The community, rightly, expects our gun laws to place tight restrictions on gun ownership and use – and for there to be fewer, not more, guns in our community, especially in light of Sunday’s tragedy,” she said.
According to a report by the Australia Institute, the number of firearms in Australia has increased by 25% compared to the time of the Port Arthur tragedy. The report further revealed that one in three firearms in New South Wales are situated in major cities, contradicting the common perception that gun ownership is predominantly a rural issue.
Mikac stressed that honoring the victims of the Bondi attack and the memory of his daughters, Alannah and Madeline, requires more than sympathy; it necessitates a courageous commitment to public safety in firearm legislation. “Australia has led the world before – we can, and must, do so again,” he asserted.
Foundation’s Commitment to Strengthening Gun Laws
In light of the recent violence, the Alannah & Madeline Foundation is calling on all levels of government to strengthen and uphold Australia’s National Firearms Agreement. The foundation has outlined several key measures aimed at enhancing gun safety and preventing further tragedies.
“We stand ready to work with leaders across the country,” said Davies. “The choices made now will determine whether this moment becomes another turning point — or a missed opportunity to save lives.”
Founded in memory of Mikac’s daughters, who lost their lives alongside their mother and 32 others at Port Arthur on 28 April 1996, the Alannah & Madeline Foundation remains dedicated to ensuring that all children can live free from violence and trauma. Through its Care, Prevention, and Advocacy programs, the foundation continues its mission to promote safety and well-being for children across Australia.
The Australian Gun Safety Alliance, a coalition advocating for community interests in gun safety, supports these efforts and encourages ongoing vigilance regarding firearm legislation. As the nation reflects on the Bondi attack, the call for comprehensive reform in gun laws grows louder, underscoring the need for immediate action to protect lives.
For more information on the Alannah & Madeline Foundation and its initiatives, visit www.alannahandmadeline.org.au.
