Anthony Albanese announces special honours to recognise heroes of Bondi terror attack

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced a special honours list that will recognise the heroes of the Bondi terror attack.

“Today I’ve written to the Governor-General requesting the creation of a special honours list in response to this horrific terrorist attack,” Mr Albanese announced from Canberra on Wednesday.

He said it would form part of the Australian honours and awards system.

“This would recognise those individuals nominated and recommended for a bravery or a meritorious award in response to the Bondi terrorist attack.”

Mr Albanese said the anti-Semitic attack targeted Jews at Bondi Beach, however, the “best of the Australian character” was seen in the response.

“The attack did show us the worst of humanity, hatred, violence. It also showed us the best of humanity, extraordinary acts of bravery and courage, acts of kindness for fellow Australians,” he said.

The honours, like ones previously awarded following the Bali bombings and the MH17 disappearance, will work through a system that is usually used, and a nomination system to recognise “extraordinary acts of bravery and courage, acts of kindness for fellow Australians”.

The awards will be announced in 2026.

The Prime Minister confirmed he has also asked the Governor General to write to Israeli President Isaac Herzog, inviting him to Australia.

“I’ve met him personally a number of times before, and I will certainly be welcoming him here and meeting with him when he is here,” Mr Albanese said.

Asked if Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had been invited, Mr Albanese said “we’ve invited President Herzog, which is entirely appropriate for the head of state to visit”.

Mr Albanese also confirmed he had not spoken with Mr Netanyahu since the Bondi terror attack.