Sydney is witnessing an unprecedented security presence as thousands of heavily armed police officers patrol the city for New Year's celebrations. This follows the recent mass shooting at Bondi Beach, which targeted the Jewish community and claimed 15 lives, marking the deadliest such incident in Australia since 1996. Over 2,500 police personnel have been deployed, with many carrying advanced weaponry to ensure public safety during the festivities. In a show of solidarity and remembrance, New Year's Eve parties will pause for a minute's silence at 23:00 local time, and the Sydney Harbour Bridge will be illuminated with white light to symbolise peace.