URGENT UPDATE: Disinformation pages are rapidly spreading false claims about former Prime Minister John Howard in the aftermath of the deadly Bondi Beach shooting that left at least 15 people dead on December 14, 2025. False quotes attributed to Howard accusing current Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of “betraying Australia” have been debunked by AAP FactCheck.
The alarming spread of misinformation follows the tragic attack, where Sajid Akram and his 24-year-old son Naveed opened fire during a Jewish event, injuring dozens more. While Howard has criticized Albanese’s government for its handling of anti-Semitism and gun laws in official statements, the fabricated quotes are gaining traction across foreign-operated Facebook pages, misleading the public.
A post from a disinformation page called “Swimming Times” falsely claims Howard confronted Albanese during a televised interview, stating, “YOU ARE A TERRIBLE PRIME MINISTER, WHO BETRAYED AUSTRALIA WITH FALSE PROMISES!” This post alone has been shared over 750 times and garnered more than 10,000 likes.
In reality, there is no record of Howard making such statements in any live broadcast following the shooting. The former prime minister’s actual comments include a December 16 press conference where he emphasized the need for action against anti-Semitism and criticized discussions around gun laws as an “attempted diversion.”
Another disinformation outlet, “Swim Aquatics,” has also pushed misleading claims, alleging Howard made disparaging remarks in parliament, asserting he was wrong to trust Albanese. The post misleadingly suggests that Albanese retaliated on social media, intensifying a fabricated controversy that has set social media ablaze.
The false narratives surrounding the Bondi Beach shooting are part of a broader trend of misinformation targeting political figures and public events. AAP FactCheck has previously debunked similar pages for disseminating fake quotes and misleading information about various political leaders.
As authorities work to manage the fallout from this tragic event, it is crucial for the public to remain vigilant against misinformation. Follow AAP FactCheck on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X to stay informed and protect against disinformation.
With the misinformation spreading like wildfire, it is vital to verify facts before sharing. The ongoing situation highlights the critical importance of accurate reporting and accountability in the digital age.
