In a significant and emotional move, Parliament has reconvened earlier than expected to pay tribute to the victims of the tragic Bondi terror attack. This solemn gathering serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing need for unity and support in the face of such violence. Stay tuned for live updates as we follow this important story.
Key Highlights
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12 minutes ago - Sun 18 Jan 2026 at 8:05 PM
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18 minutes ago - Sun 18 Jan 2026 at 7:58 PM
2 minutes ago - Sun 18 Jan 2026 at 8:14 PM
Marles Critiques Coalition's Stance on Hate Laws
By Courtney Gould
In a passionate plea, Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles has called on the Coalition to engage with the government in supporting the proposed hate laws designed to protect vulnerable communities. "This is fundamentally a decision for the Liberal Party to make regarding their backing of anti-hate legislation," he stated during an interview on ABC News Breakfast.
Marles further explained the government's intent to implement recommendations from Jillian Segal's report aimed at combatting antisemitism, emphasizing the need for anti-vilification laws to be considered in Parliament. When asked if the Labor party was willing to negotiate concessions to gain support from the Coalition, he indicated that they were open to constructive discussions.
"Our commitment is to enact the measures from the antisemitism report, which we believe align with what the Liberals have professed to support for months. Yet, when it comes time to act, they seem to be absent from the conversation," he remarked. He also highlighted that the Jewish community is eager for these laws to pass, advocating for a bipartisan approach to ensure their success.
7 minutes ago - Sun 18 Jan 2026 at 8:10 PM
Burns Urges Legislative Action on Hate Laws
By Courtney Gould
Labor MP Josh Burns has joined the call for Parliament to swiftly enact the government’s scaled-back hate laws aimed at safeguarding Jewish Australians. After failing to secure support from both the Coalition and the Greens for more comprehensive legislation against racial hatred, the government has faced challenges in pushing its agenda forward.
Burns expressed urgency, stating, "We cannot adjourn without passing these essential laws... It's crucial that we maintain focus and ensure we meet even the most basic standards of protection." He added, "Realistically, we should aim to go further in our legislative efforts."
Key Event
12 minutes ago - Sun 18 Jan 2026 at 8:05 PM
Parliament to Support Victims’ Families
By Courtney Gould
As Parliament resumes, many members, including Labor MP Josh Burns, will take a moment to honor the victims of the Bondi terror attack. The legislative body has scheduled a two-day session to conduct a condolence motion in memory of the 15 individuals lost in this horrific incident.
Burns noted that several family members of the victims would be present during this time of remembrance, and he intends to share his reflections. "These individuals were proud Australians who cherished this country and celebrated their faith and culture within one of Australia’s most iconic locales. It is fitting that our nation's democratic institution pays tribute to them and surrounds their families with support," he shared during his appearance on ABC News Breakfast.
Key Event
18 minutes ago - Sun 18 Jan 2026 at 7:58 PM
Current Status of Labor's Hate Laws
By Courtney Gould
The government's comprehensive bill, set to be debated tomorrow, includes several components. One key aspect is the establishment of a national gun buyback initiative and stricter regulations on firearm imports, which is anticipated to receive support from the Greens.
However, the proposals targeting hate speech have sparked considerable debate. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese previously had to abandon plans to criminalize the promotion of racial hatred due to a lack of support from the Coalition and the Greens. Nevertheless, he remains hopeful that an agreement can be reached to grant the Home Affairs Minister powers to prohibit hate organizations like Hizb ut-Tahrir and the Nationalist Socialist Network while also enhancing the ability to deny visas related to such groups. The opposition leader and the shadow cabinet are expected to finalize their stance on these matters later today.
29 minutes ago - Sun 18 Jan 2026 at 7:47 PM
👋Good Morning
By Courtney Gould
Greetings, everyone! How did you spend your summer? I trust it was wonderful. You might be curious about why we’re kicking off another edition of the federal politics live blog so early in January. Well, the Parliament is back in session, albeit for a limited two-day stint, as lawmakers gather in Canberra to address the government’s response following last month’s Bondi terror attack.
The first order of business will be a condolence motion honoring the victims of this tragic event. Tomorrow, attention will shift to potential legislative proposals, which I’ll elaborate on shortly.
So, grab your favorite coffee, settle in, and join us for our first day back on the blog!
