Australian Home Affairs Minister Explains Why He Avoids the Term ‘Islamic Extremism’

‘The terrorists want the label because they think it gives them legitimacy in their world and that’s why I’ve always been reluctant to use it,’ said Burke.

Minister for Home Affairs, Cyber, and Immigration Tony Burke addresses the chamber at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia on Jan. 20, 2026. Hilary Wardhaugh/Getty Images

Australia’s Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke has revealed why his party steers away from the term “radical Islamic extremism” when describing the Bondi terrorists.

The issue has been a focal point around the response to the Bondi Beach terrorists who were inspired by ISIS and targeted a Jewish celebration on Dec. 14, killing 15 people in a mass shooting.