There are now more guns in the community per capita than in the aftermath of the Port Arthur massacre, with at least 2,000 new firearms lawfully entering the community every week

For almost three decades, Australia’s gun laws have been recognised as among the most stringent – and effective – in the world.

After the horror of the 1996 Port Arthur massacre that killed 35 people in Tasmania, Australia’s then conservative government stared down the gun lobby to introduce restrictions that led to a dramatic decrease in the number of guns.

Further 29 people in hospital, after attack on Sydney beach where Hanukah event was taking place

• Bondi beach terror attack: full report

• What we know so far about the Bondi beach attack

The prime minister, Anthony Albanese, just released a statement. He said:

The scenes in Bondi are shocking and distressing. Police and emergency responders are on the ground working to save lives. My thoughts are with every person affected.

I just have spoken to the AFP Commissioner and the NSW Premier. We are working with NSW Police and will provide further updates as more information is confirmed.

I urge people in the vicinity to follow information from the NSW Police.

NSW police said two police were in custody but the ‘operation is ongoing and we continue to urge people to avoid the area’

New South Wales police say two people are in custody following an incident at Bondi beach during which at least a dozen gunshots were fired in the area.

In a statement shared to X at about 7pm on Sunday, police advised there was a “developing incident” at Bondi and they urged the public to avoid the area.