What NZ needs to watch as Australia reforms gun laws after the Bondi terror attack

Following the December 2025 Bondi terror attack in Sydney, Australia is launching its largest firearms regulation overhaul since the 1996 Port Arthur massacre. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed the alleged shooter had been previously examined by intelligence agency ASIO. The attack, which killed multiple victims, has prompted federal, state and territory governments to collaborate on sweeping reforms. Australia's gold-standard approach post-Port Arthur prevented an estimated 16 more mass shootings. Key areas under review include licensing requirements, firearm limits (Western Australia caps at 5 firearms for hunting/recreational licenses), and medical assessments by GPs for mental and physical fitness. Unlike New Zealand, where medical professionals only report concerns after licensing, Australia may enhance pre-licensing health checks. The reforms will scrutinize how a licensed individual could legally possess firearms while connected to an unlicensed person with extremist links. New Zealand, currently rewriting its Arms Act after the 2019 Christchurch attacks, will closely observe Australia's changes to strengthen its own counter-terrorism measures.