Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has alluded to a possible review to security measures across shopping centres following last weekend’s stabbing incident at Bondi Junction Westfield.
Six people were killed in the incident and several others were injured. The attacker was also fatally shot at the scene by a member of the NSW Police Force.
Speaking on ABC Radio National yesterday, Albanese said the time now is for the community to grieve, but added a review is on the cards ahead.
“There will be a time, of course, for us to have a considered response to any security lessons that need to be learnt from an incident such as this,” Albanese said.
Albanese said an investigation is currently underway to understand why and how this incident occurred.
The Shopping Centre Council of Australia (SCCA) welcomed Albanese’s comments regarding a potential review of security arrangements, with CEO Angus Nardi saying the council stands ready to engage on any relevant public policy and security issues.
“Our industry has a longstanding Community Safety and Security Committee, which advises on key industry security issues, and we have engaged on key public policy issues, and with Police and other agencies over a long period of time,” Nardi said.
“Community safety and security is a priority for our industry, and we take very seriously that shopping centres are public places, are at the heart of our communities, and our visitors can include families and children.
“Our members’ shopping centres have mature security arrangements in relation to relevant risks, and dedicated teams and staff who undertake their roles with care, compassion and duty.
“Our industry is committed and ready to work with governments and relevant stakeholders on any learnings to ensure our staff and visitors stay safe.”
NSW Premier Chris Minns said he and his team is undertaking their own review of current restrictions around security guard equipment, but ruled out changing policy for stun guns and firearms.
“We don’t believe that more firearms in the community is a good decision, but we’re looking at the current restrictions that are in place for equipment, for security guards, and the resulting training that would be required if there was to be a policy change.”
Scentre Group CEO Elliott Rusanow said the police has hand Westfield Bondi back to the company and is preparing to re-open.
“We have not decided yet on that date,” Rusanow said. “We expect it will be later this week.
“Our centre is an important social hub. We are carefully considering how we re-open to the community in a way that is measured and respectful.
“We are working with a range of community members and other stakeholders on what this plan looks like.”
Rusanow added there are many considerations given the scale of the tragedy and its impact.
“We welcome the NSW Government’s decision to light up the sails of the Sydney Opera House tonight and in solidarity with this, we will light up Westfield Tower in the city tonight,” he said. “We are deeply involved in assisting the police investigation.
“We welcome the announcement of the coronial inquiry and will participate fully in the process, including on the topic of security arrangements and practices at our destinations.
“Our focus is on supporting our people, our business partners and the broader community who love Westfield Bondi.”