Canberra: Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Monday publicly apologized for the recent Bondi Beach shooting and announced broad reforms. During a news conference at Parliament House, Canberra, Premier Albanese said his government would work daily to protect Australian citizens.

According to Anadolu Agency, Albanese expressed a deep sense of responsibility for the tragedy that occurred under his leadership, stating, "I feel the weight of responsibility for an atrocity that happened whilst I'm prime minister. And I'm sorry," as per a transcript published on the prime minister's website.

Albanese unveiled a series of legislative proposals aimed at bolstering protections against hate crimes and extremist activities. This includes plans to engage in extensive consultations with communities and Parliament. Among the proposed measures is the creation of an aggravated offense for hate preaching that advocates violence against protected groups, as well as increasing penalties for hate speech, advocacy of violence, and property destruction.

The government is also contemplating granting authorities the power to cancel visas for individuals who engage in hate speech, display hate symbols, or associate with terrorist or prohibited groups. Additionally, amendments to the Customs Act are being considered to ban extremist materials or hate symbols.

Albanese noted that state and territory officials are collaborating to coordinate changes to gun law reforms. On Sunday, he also announced a review of the country's federal intelligence and law enforcement agencies in response to the December 14 mass shooting at Sydney's Bondi Beach.

The review is expected to be completed and published by April. The tragic incident last week, in which a man and his son opened fire on the beach, resulted in the death of 15 people and injuries to 42 others. Police have described the attack as a "terrorist attack."