Albanese announces intelligence, law enforcement review after Bondi massacre, no Commonwealth royal commission
Anthony Albanese has announced an intelligence and law enforcement probe one week after the Bondi massacre.
Following a meeting of the National Security Committee in Canberra, the Prime Minister said on Sunday he ordered the “Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet to lead a review into Australia’s federal law enforcement and intelligence agencies” to ensure information was flowing as needed.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“The Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet will examine whether federal law enforcement and intelligence agencies have the right powers, structures, processes and sharing arrangements in place to keep Australians safe in the wake of the horrific antisemitic Bondi Beach terrorist attack,” he said in a statement.
“The ISIS-inspired atrocity last Sunday reinforces the rapidly changing security environment in our nation.
“Our security agencies must be in the best position to respond.”
Mr Albanese said the review, first revealed by news.com.au, would be led by Dennis Richardson.
Mr Richardson is a respected former public servant who has served as secretary of the Department of Defence and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
He is also a former intelligence chief and ambassador to the US.
“The review will build on the work of the Independent Intelligence Review, conducted by Richard Maude and Heather Smith,” Mr Albanese said.
“The review will be provided to the government by the end of April 2026 and will be made publicly available.”
Mr Albanese had signalled a review was on the cards.
Australia’s intelligence and policing services have come under intense scrutiny since the deadly shootings.
The attackers targeted people attending a Hanukkah festival at Bondi Beach, killing 15 and hospitalising dozens more.
Many have questioned why there were not more police on site and how the suspects, Naveed and Sajid Akram, stayed below the radar of counter-terrorism watchers despite attending Islamic centres known for preaching extreme views.
Sajid Akram, who was killed in the police response, had amassed six firearms since acquiring his gun license in 2023.
His son, Naveed, has been charged with 59 offences, including committing a terrorist act.
Mr Albanese has also suggested he would support a royal commission into the shooting after NSW Premier Chris Minns joined growing calls for one.
More to come
Originally published as PM announces intelligence, law enforcement review after Bondi massacre
