The Bondi gunman, Naveed Akram, faces terrorism and 15 murder charges after the deadly Sydney mass shooting at a Jewish festival

Australian authorities have charged Naveed Akram, the alleged Bondi gunman, with terrorism, 15 counts of murder, and multiple other offences following what has been described as the country’s deadliest mass shooting in decades.

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New South Wales Police stated that Akram and his father, Sajid Akram, opened fire at a Jewish festival at Bondi Beach on Sunday evening, killing 15 people and injuring dozens more.

Police allege the attack was inspired by ISIS, a listed terrorist organisation in Australia. Sajid Akram was killed in a police shootout, while Naveed was critically wounded.

Among the victims were a 10-year-old girl, two Holocaust survivors, and a married couple shot dead while attempting to stop the attack.

Police further charged Naveed with 40 counts of causing grievous bodily harm with intent to murder and the public display of the symbol of a prohibited terrorist organisation.

Two homemade Islamic State flags were found in a car registered to Naveed and parked near the beach.

Authorities said Naveed remains in hospital and is expected to appear in court via audiovisual link.

“Police will allege in court the man engaged in conduct that caused death, serious injury and endangered life to advance a religious cause and cause fear in the community,” New South Wales Police said.

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The charges mark one of the most serious terrorism cases in Australia in recent memory, drawing national and international attention.