Australia news live: NSW upper house passes gun and protest law; database to log all hate crime charges

By Martin Farrer · The Guardian World

Marathon session of legislative council sees legislation pass into law; Tony Burke launches tracker to help enable ‘evidence-based’ action Get our breaking news email , free app or daily news podcast Anthony Albanese says Christmas “will feel different this year” after the Bondi terror shooting, paying tribute to victims and heroes of the antisemitic attack in a holiday message to Australians. The prime minister said: After the terror inflicted on Jewish Australians celebrating Chanukah at Bondi Beach, we feel the weight of sorrow in our hearts. As Christmas brings its message of love and compassion, we grieve those whose lives were stolen – and those whose lives were changed forever. Together, we give thanks for the extraordinary courage that shone so brightly through the darkness. A powerful reminder that in the worst of times we see the very best of the Australian character. It is in that spirit that Christmas brings Australians together to celebrate all that we have and all that we share. We give thanks to our emergency personnel, our medical workers, our hospitality and charity workers – and so many more. Likewise the volunteers who spend the season of giving devoting their time and energy to serving those in need, exemplifying the Australian spirit of kindness, generosity and compassion. We also thank our Defence Force personnel, who forgo the comforts of home and family to defend our nation. To each and every Australian, I wish you a Christmas of peace, safety and love. A Christmas where we stand together, united. A Christmas of healing and one of hope. Continue reading...