Australia’s Federal Intelligence to Undergo Comprehensive Examination

(MENAFN) Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced a comprehensive examination of the nation's federal intelligence and law enforcement infrastructure following the December 14 mass shooting that devastated Sydney's Bondi Beach.

Albanese confirmed the investigation will conclude by April with public findings released, an Australian broadcasting agency disclosed Sunday.

The deadly assault unfolded last Sunday evening when a man and his son unleashed gunfire on beachgoers in Sydney, slaughtering 15 people and wounding 42 others. Authorities characterized the rampage as a "terrorist attack."

The "atrocity" of the previous week "reinforces the rapidly changing security environment in our nation. Our security agencies must be in the best position to respond," Albanese stated.

Dennis Richardson, previously serving as chief of the Australian Security Intelligence Organization (ASIO) and head of both defense and foreign affairs departments, will spearhead the investigation through the prime minister's office.

Targeting federal entities including ASIO and the Australian Federal Police, the examination will scrutinize the "powers, structures, processes, and sharing arrangements in place to keep Australians safe."

Sunday has been designated a "National Day of Reflection" honoring victims of the mass shooting, with Albanese participating in a memorial service at the attack site Sunday evening, accompanied by New South Wales Premier Chris Minns.

"Terrorists have sought to divide this country but this is a time to stand united – particularly on this National Day of Reflection," Albanese declared via US social media platform X.

"There are organized rallies seeking to sow division in the aftermath of last Sunday's antisemitic terrorist attack, and they have no place in Australia. They should not go ahead and people should not attend them," he added.

MENAFN21122025000045017169ID1110507963