Labor’s Islamic terrorism deflection is desperate

Instead of dealing with Islamic terrorism, the Albanese government is focused on gun laws.

Since neither the Coalition nor the Greens have agreed with Labor’s response to the Islamist-inspired murder of 15 Australians, the Prime Minister has pivoted to a familiar line of attack. He is now claiming the Coalition opposition has made clear what they don’t stand for, but offered nothing on what they do stand for.

This is rich coming from a leader whose own omnibus legislation was a massive failure.

What began as a rushed response to genuine community outrage over antisemitism and Islamic extremism initially morphed into a sprawling, politically expedient package that bundled hate speech reforms with gun control in a way that alienated potential allies across the spectrum.

Now, instead of dealing with the real problem – Islamic terrorism – the Albanese government is focused on gun laws. 

My latest in The Spectator Australia, Labor’s Islamic terrorism deflection is desperate.

Parliament returns today for a rare special sitting recalled early by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

The truth politicians voting on the legislation today must remember is that terrorists don’t give a toss about words or gun laws. They would use rocks to achieve their aims.… pic.twitter.com/2wenZUpCeh

— The Spectator Australia (@SpectatorOz) January 18, 2026