Bondi Beach mass shooting: Australia marks one month on from the nation’s worst terror attack

Australia has marked one month on from the nation’s worst terror attack which claimed 15 lives celebrating Chanukah at Bondi Beach on December 14.

NSW Minister Chris Minns described the massacre as an “absolutely horrible crime” which “requires a comprehensive response”.

Mr Minns on Wednesday announced the appointment of two coordinator generals — Multicultural NSW chief executive Joseph La Posta and NSW Jewish Board of deputies chief executive Michele Goldman — to help the community heal.

“Today’s announcements are practical measures. They’re two individuals who know community, and are there to listen to the people as we get them back on their feet,” Mr Minns said.

“It’s not going to be straightforward. Recovering after a horrible terrorism event like this is different for different people and different families. Some will do it reasonably quickly and perhaps even easily, for others it may take months or years to get back on their feet.

“We want to say to the Bondi community and those who have been affected by this horrible crime, that we are there for the long haul.

He also weighed into debate over the future of the Bondi Beach footbridge from which alleged gunmen Sajid and Naveed Akram stood on December 14.

On Thursday evening, the Waverley Council are set to discuss whether the heritage-listed more than a century old bridge should remain as they were “ reaching the end of their useful life and require replacement within several years”.

Mr Minns told reporters it was his view that it should be “knocked down”, insisting it would just serve as a “ghoulish reminder”.

But he said ultimately it would be down to the council in consultation with the families of victims.

“My personal view is it would be better to be knocked down but it’s the Council’s responsibility and I understand they are the victims and their families and I think they should have the final say.”

The nation is expected to come together in solidarity on Thursday, January 22 for a National Day of Mourning.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was also in Sydney on Wednesday and is understood to have been involved in several private meetings related to the Bondi attack.

In a letter published in the Daily Telegraph on Wednesday, Mr Albanese said Australians will never forget the victims — which included 10-year-old girl Matilda and Rabbis.

He said flags would fly at half-mast next Thursday as Australia’s remembered those “whose lives and futures were so cruelly stolen”.

“Over the last month, we have seen photos of their smiling faces, been given a glimpse of who they were, how much they meant and how deeply they were loved,” the PM penned.

“Australians will never forget the victims of the deadliest terrorist attack on our soil.

“The last month has been a stern test of our national character and, as always, Australians have responded with the best of our national character: by working together and looking after each other.

“The spirit of national unity is vital to our national security and our government will continue to strengthen both.”

The Federal Parliament is expected to return on Monday next week for an additional two day sitting to introduce new laws on hate speech and gun control.