Australian police on Monday said that the deadly mass shooting at Sydney’s Bondi Beach earlier this week was ideologically inspired by the Islamic State (IS) group, confirming that the attack is being treated as an act of terrorism.
According to senior officials from the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and New South Wales Police, preliminary investigations have found strong evidence that the attackers were influenced by Islamic State propaganda and extremist ideology, though there is no indication that the group directly coordinated or ordered the attack.
The shooting took place on December 14 at Bondi Beach, one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations, where a large public gathering was underway. At least 15 people were killed, and more than 20 others sustained injuries, several of them critical. Police described it as Australia’s worst mass shooting in nearly three decades.
Authorities identified the attackers as a father and son, aged 50 and 24. The older suspect was shot dead by police at the scene, while the younger was injured and taken into custody. Investigators said the pair acted together and deliberately targeted civilians.
“Everything we have seen so far points to an attack motivated by violent extremist ideology associated with Islamic State,” an AFP spokesperson said. “This was not random violence, but a calculated act intended to cause maximum fear and harm.”
Police also confirmed that materials linked to IS ideology, including flags and digital content, were recovered during searches linked to the suspects. Intelligence agencies are examining the attackers’ online activity and recent overseas travel to determine the extent of their radicalisation.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the attack in strong terms, calling it “an act of terror against innocent people” and expressing solidarity with the victims and their families. “Australia will never be defined by hatred or extremism,” he said, adding that security agencies would be given full support to prevent similar attacks.
The incident has triggered a nationwide debate on counter-terrorism preparedness, online radicalisation, and public safety at major events. Security has been tightened across Sydney and other major cities, particularly around crowded public spaces and community gatherings.
As investigations continue, police have urged the public to remain calm but vigilant, and to report any suspicious behaviour. A candlelight vigil was held at Bondi Beach on Monday evening, as thousands gathered to mourn the victims and pay tribute to those who lost their lives.
The case remains under active investigation.
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