Albanese declares Bondi attack ‘act of evil’ as nation mourns
'An attack on Jewish Australians is an attack on every Australian, and every Australian tonight will be like me, devastated by this attack on our way of life'
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has condemned the Bondi Beach terror attack as “an act of evil, antisemitism, terrorism that has struck the heart of our nation” following the shooting that killed at least 11 people at a Chanukah celebration.
Speaking at a press conference in Canberra on Sunday night after convening the National Security Committee, Albanese said the targeted attack on Jewish Australians was an attack on every Australian.
“This afternoon, there has been a devastating terrorist incident at Bondi at the Chanukah by the Sea celebration. This is a targeted attack on Jewish Australians on the first day of Chanukah, which should be a day of joy, a celebration of faith,” Albanese said.
“An attack on Jewish Australians is an attack on every Australian, and every Australian tonight will be like me, devastated by this attack on our way of life. There is no place for this hate, violence and terrorism in our nation. Let me be clear – we will eradicate it.”
The attack occurred around 6.40pm when multiple gunmen opened fire on families celebrating at the annual Chanukah by the Sea event at Bondi Beach. Video footage captured at least two gunmen positioned on a footbridge linking Campbell Parade to Bondi Pavilion, firing into the crowd below.
NSW Police have detained two men, with a shotgun and multiple casings visible on the footbridge where suspects were arrested. Police have declared it a terrorist incident.
ASIO director-general Mike Burgess said one of the individuals was known to security agencies “but not in an immediate threat perspective”.
“We are looking at the identities of the attackers and where that is known, we’re looking to see if there is anyone in the community that has similar intent,” Burgess said.
“It’s important to stress at this point, we have no indications to that fact, but that is something we have active investigations on.”
The national terrorism threat level remains at probable, meaning a 50 per cent chance of a terrorist attack.
Australian Federal Police acting deputy commissioner for national security Nigel Ryan said the AFP, ASIO and NSW Police would use specialist powers to investigate the attack.
“Our thoughts go out to the families and communities that have been affected by this senseless attack today,” Ryan said.
Albanese praised the courage of NSW Police, first responders and everyday Australians who rushed to help.
“We have seen Australians today run towards danger in order to help others. These Australians are heroes, and their bravery has saved lives,” he said.
Albanese addressed the Jewish community directly. “As Prime Minister, I say on behalf of all Australians to the Jewish community, we stand with you. We embrace you and we reaffirm tonight that you have every right to be proud of who you are and what you believe,” Albanese said.
“You have the right to worship and study and live and work in peace and safety. And you enrich us as a nation. You should never have to endure the loss that you have suffered today.”
Opposition leader Sussan Ley said, “This attack occurred as our Jewish community came together at the Chanukah by the Sea celebration. This was a celebration of peace and hope for the future, severed by hate.
“My heart is with Australia’s Jewish community tonight, particularly those in the eastern suburbs of Sydney — people I know well.
“Today we stand together as Australians against hate in this moment of profound tragedy and shock.”
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