MEDIA STATEMENT 14 December 2025
I am utterly shocked and deeply distressed by the events unfolding at Bondi Beach tonight.
My thoughts are with everyone affected by this horrific attack, including the victims, their families, and all those who witnessed such confronting and traumatic scenes.
With at least 10 people reported dead and fears the toll may rise further, this appears to be one of the most serious acts of mass violence Australia has experienced in decades. It is devastating, confronting, and almost impossible to comprehend.
This was meant to be a time of celebration and community, with families gathering peacefully to mark the first night of Chanukah. Instead, Australians were forced to flee for their lives, with people caught in the crossfire during what should have been a joyful public event.
I urge everyone to continue following official police advice as this remains an unfolding emergency.
I want to sincerely thank NSW Police, NSW Ambulance and all emergency personnel who ran towards danger to protect lives. Their courage, professionalism and selflessness in the most confronting circumstances deserve our deepest gratitude.
I also want to acknowledge the bravery of civilians who came to the aid of others. We are already hearing extraordinary accounts of ordinary Australians risking their own safety to help strangers and to stop further violence. That courage should never be forgotten.
If this attack is confirmed to be motivated by antisemitism, it must be condemned without hesitation. Jewish Australians, like all Australians, have the right to gather, celebrate and live without fear in this country.
Tonight is not about politics. It is about standing together as Australians, supporting the victims, backing our emergency services, and showing unity, compassion and resolve in the face of such hatred and violence.
[ENDS]
Media Contact: Brendan West – 0402 556 646 – Brendan.west@aph.gov.au
