Sydney: Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Monday visited the site of a deadly attack that targeted a Jewish holiday celebration at Bondi Beach, one of Sydney’s most popular public locations. The attack, which occurred during a public Hanukkah event, has shocked the nation and sparked renewed concern over antisemitism and public safety in Australia.
The Prime Minister laid flowers at the scene and observed a moment of silence to honour the victims. He also met with police officers, emergency responders, and state officials who were among the first to arrive after the incident. The area around Bondi Beach remains under heavy security as investigations continue.
The attack took place during a Jewish community gathering marking the start of Hanukkah, when a large number of families and visitors were present. Gunfire erupted suddenly, causing panic and chaos among the crowd. Several people were killed and many others sustained injuries, some of them critically. Authorities later confirmed that the incident was being treated as a Terror related attack motivated by antisemitism.
Speaking to reporters, Prime Minister Albanese strongly condemned the violence, calling it an “Act of hatred and extremism” that goes against Australian values. He said Australia stands united with the Jewish community and reaffirmed that religious freedom and safety must be protected at all costs.
“This was an attack not just on a community, but on the values of tolerance, respect, and multiculturalism that define Australia,” Albanese said.
The Prime Minister also confirmed that the federal government has activated national security mechanisms and is working closely with New South Wales authorities. Additional security has been deployed at synagogues, Jewish schools, and community centres across the country as a precautionary measure.
Leaders from across the political spectrum expressed solidarity with the victims and their families. Religious and community organisations held vigils in Sydney and other major cities, with thousands gathering to mourn those who lost their lives and to stand against hate.
However, the incident has also led to criticism from some quarters, with community leaders and victims’ families urging the government to take stronger action against rising antisemitism and extremist threats. Calls have intensified for tougher laws, enhanced intelligence coordination, and stronger online monitoring of hate speech.
International leaders also reacted to the attack, condemning the violence and expressing condolences to Australia and the Jewish community. The incident has raised broader global concerns about increasing attacks on religious and ethnic minorities.
As investigations continue, authorities have urged the public to remain calm and vigilant. Prime Minister Albanese said justice would be pursued fully and that Australia would not allow fear or hatred to divide its people.
The nation remains in mourning as it grapples with one of the most serious acts of targeted violence in recent years.
