Armed police have begun patrolling Sydney's streets as part of heightened security measures following last year's deadly shooting at Bondi Beach.
The new unit, known as the Armed Response Command (ARC), involves specially trained officers carrying long-arm rifles in busy tourist areas. The initiative aims to prevent, deter, and rapidly respond to serious threats, including active armed offender incidents. The officers will also patrol major events like sports matches and places of worship. The Armed Response Command is specifically designed to be highly visible across Sydney, driving specialist vehicles and carrying rifles, according to New South Wales police.
Fifteen people, including a 10-year-old girl, were killed in December when two gunmen opened fire at an event marking the Jewish festival of Hanukkah at the popular beach. The attack was Australia's worst mass shooting in almost three decades and prompted sweeping gun law reforms and a crackdown on hate speech. The shooting put significant pressure on Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's government, with calls for immediate action on antisemitism. Jewish communities have welcomed the new police operation, which will eventually consist of 250 officers, but others have raised concerns about the potential militarization of policing.
Why it matters
The new unit aims to deter similar attacks in high-traffic areas of Sydney.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.
What to watch
Watch whether the Armed Response Command's presence alters public behavior in tourist zones.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.