Heavily armed police officers have begun patrolling popular areas of Sydney as authorities introduce tighter security measures following the deadly Bondi Beach shooting in December.
The new operation, known as the Armed Response Command (ARC), will place specially trained officers in busy tourist locations and other public spaces. They will carry long-barreled rifles, creating an unusual sight for people across the city.
New South Wales Police said the officers would also provide security at major sporting events and places of worship. Their presence is intended to discourage potential attacks and allow police to respond quickly to serious threats, including incidents involving armed offenders.
The security operation follows the December attack at Bondi Beach, where two gunmen opened fire during a gathering celebrating the Jewish festival of Hanukkah. Fifteen people, including a 10-year-old girl, lost their lives.
The tragedy was Australia’s deadliest mass shooting in nearly 30 years. It also led to major changes in the country’s gun laws and renewed efforts to tackle hate speech and antisemitism. However, the increased police presence has received mixed reactions from the public. One Sydney resident told ABC News that seeing officers carrying large weapons across the city was unsettling. Another woman said the armed patrols made her feel more protected.
Police described ARC as a highly visible operation, with officers using specialist vehicles and carrying rifles while moving through key locations. Detective Superintendent Andrew Evans said the main purpose of the initiative was to protect lives and respond effectively to serious security threats.
Jewish organizations have supported the move while raising questions about how the expanded police operation will be managed. The force is expected to grow to around 250 officers.
Alex Ryvchin, co-chief executive of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, said the presence of heavily armed officers was preferable to the loss of innocent lives.
New South Wales Police Minister Yasmin Catley defended the decision, saying the Bondi attack had permanently changed the country.
One alleged attacker, Naveed Akram, faces 78 charges, including murder, attempted murder, and terrorism. His father, Sajid Akram, who was also involved in the shooting, was killed by police at the scene.
