New South Wales Premier Chris Minns has declared that security protocols for major public events in Sydney will undergo a fundamental transformation, with a heavily armed police presence confirmed for this year's New Year's Eve celebrations. The announcement follows the tragic stabbing attack at Bondi Junction Westfield on 14 December, which claimed the lives of six people.
A Confronting but Necessary Presence
Speaking from the site of the Bondi attack, Premier Minns stated that the state would not be "mucking around" with public safety. He acknowledged that the sight of police officers carrying high-powered firearms, including machine guns, on Sydney's streets would be confronting for many residents. However, he emphasised that this shift was a necessary response to evolving global threats.
"Security measures have changed in Rome and changed in Paris, and they are going to have to change here," Minns said. He confirmed that discussions were ongoing with the Commonwealth government regarding the potential deployment of Australian Defence Force personnel to bolster security, particularly for Operation Shelter, the police operation targeting antisemitic behaviour and hate crimes.
Federal Support and Community Safety
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has left the door open for military assistance, confirming talks with the NSW government about the best form of Commonwealth support. While state police retain primary responsibility for law and order, Albanese indicated that further discussions would determine the scope of any ADF role.
Minns linked the heightened security directly to concerns within the Jewish community, many of whom he said no longer felt safe gathering publicly. "The real test for us will be one year from now, five years from now, 15 years from now, when the Jewish community feels safe in their community," he stated. The premier expressed a firm belief that the community should not be forced to live "behind big walls."
Reviewing Armed Security for Community Groups
In a related move, the NSW government is actively considering granting the Community Security Group (CSG), a private security organisation employed by the Jewish community, wider powers to carry firearms at public events. This consideration includes future gatherings like the 'Hanukah by the Sea' celebration.
Minns noted that the CSG is already armed in certain settings, such as synagogues and schools. He argued that if armed guards enabled Holocaust survivors or young families to attend community events safely, it was a "small price to pay." A final decision is pending further consultation with the Jewish Board of Deputies.
Call for Public Resilience
Despite the intimidating security posture, Premier Minns urged Sydneysiders not to be deterred from celebrating New Year's Eve. He framed public attendance as an act of defiance against terrorism. "I think there's a good opportunity for parents and members of the community to show that they're not going to be cowered or intimidated," he said.
Full details of the security plan for the harbourside fireworks display are expected to be released by Minns and NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon within the next two days. The premier made no apology for the scale of the operation, stating it was essential for public safety in the wake of the Bondi tragedy.
