The new legislation includes stricter background checks, mandatory waiting periods for all firearm purchases, and a ban on certain types of semi-automatic weapons. It also introduces a national firearms registry, designed to track gun ownership across state lines, addressing a previous loophole that allowed individuals to purchase weapons in states with less stringent regulations.

"This is about protecting Australians," said Attorney-General Sarah Jenkins during a press conference in Canberra. "The events at Bondi Beach were a tragic reminder of the need for constant vigilance and a commitment to keeping dangerous weapons out of the wrong hands."

The attack, which occurred on December 15th, involved a lone assailant using a legally obtained semi-automatic rifle, resulting in 12 fatalities and numerous injuries. The incident sparked national outrage and reignited the debate over gun control in a country that already has relatively strict firearm regulations compared to the United States.

Australia's previous major gun law reform occurred in 1996, following the Port Arthur massacre, which resulted in a nationwide gun buyback program and stricter licensing requirements. Experts credit these reforms with significantly reducing gun-related violence in the country.

The current legislation also incorporates elements of AI-powered risk assessment. Law enforcement agencies will utilize algorithms to analyze social media activity, purchasing patterns, and other data points to identify individuals who may pose a threat. This predictive policing approach, while promising, raises concerns about potential biases and privacy violations.

"We are aware of the ethical considerations surrounding the use of AI in law enforcement," stated Dr. Emily Carter, a professor of criminology at the University of Sydney. "It is crucial that these systems are transparent, accountable, and subject to independent oversight to prevent discrimination and ensure due process."

Civil liberties groups have expressed reservations about the expanded surveillance powers granted to law enforcement under the new laws. They argue that the legislation could disproportionately affect marginalized communities and stifle free speech.

The legislation passed both houses of Parliament with bipartisan support, reflecting a broad consensus on the need to address the threat of gun violence. However, some conservative lawmakers have criticized the ban on certain semi-automatic weapons, arguing that it infringes on the rights of law-abiding gun owners.

The new laws are scheduled to take effect on February 1st. The government has allocated significant funding for the implementation of the national firearms registry and the development of AI-powered risk assessment tools. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation will be crucial to assess the effectiveness of the new legislation and address any unintended consequences. The government has committed to reviewing the laws after two years to determine if further adjustments are necessary.