Bondi shooting as it happened: 11 killed, gunman dead, another in custody as massacre declared terrorism

“There is no place for this hate, violence and terrorism in our nation,” Mr Albanese said.

“Let me be clear, we will eradicate it amidst this vile act of violence and hate will emerge as a moment of national unity where Australians, across the board, will embrace their fellow Australians of Jewish faith.

“At this dark moment for our nation, our police and security agencies are working to determine anyone associated with this outrage.”

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has spoken after convening the National Security Committee on Sunday night, calling the terrorist attack targeting Jews at Bondi Beach “evil”.

“I think at this moment it is appropriate to tell Australians that the National Security Committee was convened as a matter of urgency and we have just come from it,” Mr Albanese said.

“This afternoon, there has been a devastating terrorist incident at Bondi at the Hanukkah by the sea celebration.

“This is a targeted attack on Jewish Australians on the first day of Hanukkah, which should be a day of joy, a celebration of faith, an act of evil, anti-Semitism, terrorism that has struck the heart of our nation.

“An attack on Jewish Australians is an attack on every Australian and every Australian.”

“Our counter-terrorism command will lead this investigation with investigators from the State Crime Command,” Commissioner Lanyon said.

“No stone will be left unturned.

“This type of disgraceful activity, this warrantless use of violence, the taking of innocent lives, is unacceptable to New South Wales.

“It’s not our way of life. I’ve been very clear since I’ve been the commissioner that as a police force, we won’t stand for this type of violence.”

NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon said emergency crews responded quickly in the moments after the mass shooting broke out.

He confirmed the shooting started in Archer Park, a grassed area just north of the Bondi Pavilion at Bondi Beach.

“Unfortunately, at least 12 people are deceased at this time. 29 people have been transported to various hospitals around the Sydney area, including two police officers,” the Commissioner said.

“The condition of those officers and the other transported are serious, but there is a range of conditions.

“Our thoughts, prayers and love go to all the families and all of those that were involved tonight. We know that there were many people there to celebrate a happy occasion. The celebration of Hanukkah. And there were well over a thousand people there when this took place.

“As a result of the circumstances of the incident tonight at 9.36pm this evening, I declared this to be a terrorist incident.”

NSW Premier Chris Minns said Australians have a responsibility to support our Jewish community in the wake of a terrorism mass shooting at Bondi Beach that targeted Jews.

“It’s a responsibility of all Australians to wrap their arms around Australia’s Jewish community and help them get through this incredibly difficult period,” Mr Minns said.

“This is a massive, complex and just beginning investigation. It’s just begun and there are things that tonight we don’t have the answers to.

“However, we do have answers to some crucial, crucial pieces of information for our wonderful city and our beautiful state.

“The first one is the outpouring of love and support from ordinary Australians for Australia’s Jewish community is real.”

NSW Premier Chris Minns has confirmed the Bondi Beach mass shooting was a terrorist event designed to target Australia’s Jewish community.

“This cowardly act of terrifying violence is shocking and painful to see and represents some of our worst fears about terrorism in Sydney,” Mr Minns said.

“I very sadly need to report that as of now, there are at least 12 individuals that have been killed.

“One of the offenders has also been killed and one is in custody.

“This attack was designed to target Sydney’s Jewish community. On the first day of Hanukkah.

“What should have been a night of peace and joy celebrated in that community with families and supporters, has been shattered by this horrifying evil attack.

“I can assure the community it will be met with a massive, comprehensive police and public order response.

“Our heart bleeds for Australia’s Jewish community tonight. I can only imagine the pain that they’re feeling right now to see their loved ones killed as they celebrate this ancient holiday.”

Authorities are asking people who have video from the Bondi Beach mass shooting to share it with police are they investigate the fatal incident.

“Police are now appealing for anyone in the Bondi Beach area with mobile phone or dashcam vision relevant to this incident to upload it,” NSW Police said.

Video can be shared with NSW Police here.

Video can be provided anonymously with Crime Stoppers here.

NSW Police want to remind the public not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

We are standing by for a press conference from NSW Police. Stay with us as we bring you the latest updates.

Opposition Leader Sussan Ley says Australia is mourning after the “hateful violence” seen at Bondi Beach.

“Australians are in deep mourning tonight, with hateful violence striking at the heart of an iconic Australian community, a place we all know so well and love, Bondi,” she said.

“The loss of life from this attack is significant and I join with the Prime Minister in urging all Australians to follow official advice from police and relevant authorities.

Ms Ley drew attention to the fact that this horrific shooting occurred on a Jewish holiday, while a Jewish event was being held.

“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,” she said.

“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.

Ms Ley thanked responders for their swift response in hope of saving lives.

“Those who ran towards the danger, everyday Australians, our police and paramedics are heroes.

“I provide the Prime Minister and all Commonwealth and State agencies with the Coalition’s full and unconditional support as both governments respond to this situation.”

NSW Police have located what they believe is an improvised explosive device at Bondi Beach near the site of the horrific mass shooting event.

It is understood that the bomb squad is currently assessing the situation.

Although police have neutralised the shooters, they are urging people to stay away from the area.