The priority is to reduce the likelihood of copycats, and not add to media sensationalism that could be the springboard for any local cells to do something nasty.

It is useful to stereotype the offender as a lone nut job.

At the same time however, I see risks in spin that Australians might be discriminating against Muslims. That really is something that a local cell could capitalise on for cause and international publicity.

Government and politicians are likely to do something really silly, such as proposing more laws as populist 'solutions' and to be seen to be taking action. There have always been laws against holding people against their will, making threats and causing harm.