MEDIA STATEMENT
7 October 2026
Today marks three years since Hamas terrorists carried out the October 7 massacre in Israel, murdering approximately 1,200 people and taking more than 250 hostages in the deadliest attack on Jewish people since the Holocaust.
We remember the lives stolen, the families torn apart and the survivors whose lives were changed forever. We honour those who endured captivity and the families who have carried an unimaginable burden of grief.
Two months after the attacks, I travelled to Israel with parliamentary colleagues. At Kfar Aza, I walked past homes scarred by gunfire and destroyed by fire. What I witnessed will remain with me for the rest of my life.
Three years passing does not diminish the horror of that day. Nor does it diminish our responsibility to confront the hatred behind it.
For Jewish Australians, this anniversary comes amid grief for the victims of the Bondi Beach terrorist attack and continuing concern for their own safety.
No Australian should feel compelled to hide their faith, remove a Star of David or question whether their children can safely attend school. No community should have to plead for protection in its own country.
The Albanese Government’s response to antisemitism has been too slow and too often driven by pressure and politics rather than leadership. Commemoration must be matched by sustained action.
Governments must deliver practical protection for Jewish communities, enforce the law against threats and violence, and hold institutions accountable when they fail to protect Jewish Australians. The Royal Commission’s work must produce lasting change.
As Chair of the Australia-Israel Allies Caucus, I will continue working with parliamentary colleagues and faith leaders to confront antisemitism and strengthen Australia’s relationship with Israel.
I reaffirm my support for Israel’s right to exist in peace and security, and to defend its people against terrorism. I also pray for a lasting peace that gives innocent Israelis and Palestinians a future free from terror and war.
To our Jewish community on the Sunshine Coast, across Australia and around the world: you have my unwavering support.
We remember. We stand with you. We will continue to speak up.
Am Yisrael Chai. The People of Israel Live.
[ENDS]
Media Contact: Brendan West – 0402 556 646 – Brendan.west@aph.gov.au
