Bondi massacre: Anthony Albanese marks National Day of Mourning for victims on anti-Semitic terror attack

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has marked the commencement of a National Day of Mourning for the victims of the Bondi Beach massacre, saying Australia stands together with the Jewish community after the anti-Semitic terror attack that killed 15 innocent people.

“Today, we mark the national day of mourning to honour victims of the Bondi anti-Semitic terrorist attack,” Mr Albanese said.

“It is a solemn opportunity for every Australian to stand with the Jewish community and remember the 15 lives stolen in this deadly attack.

“When we look to Bondi, we don’t just see a beach. We see it as part of our promise to the world. It’s a welcoming embrace. A famous crescent of sand and water where there’s room for everyone.

Mr Albanese said many Australians, especially Sydneysiders, hold fond memories of times at Bondi Beach.

“This is a place where nothing should break, except for the waves. But a lot broke that night,” he said.

“It was a tragic attack not just on Jewish Australians, but on the Australian way of life.

“A country where the Australian covenant is that if people have any hate or prejudice when they come to this country, they leave it in the Customs hall, and they arrive here as part of the Australian agreement.

“It is a place where we cherish our diversity. Where we respect people’s right to practice their faith. Where we respect each other for who individuals are.

Mr Albanese said dark descended on a night that should have been light, full of celebration for the Jewish community.

“The first night of Hanukkah - a celebration of the victory of light over darkness, a community gathering that the Chabad Jewish community in Bondi, led by Rabbi Ullhman, have conducted for many, many years, and a place and a commemoration that’s open to everyone - Jewish and alike,” Mr Albanese said.

“A commemoration where they have activities for children to enjoy.

“Where they have music and a sense of joy.

“For darkness to descend on that is, indeed, something that is a stain on our nation.

“Today is an opportunity for us to remember and pay respect to the 15 lives.

“A chance for us to, if we have faith, to pray. If we don’t, to hope that those who still suffer from injuries and are recovering - both physical and mental, have the opportunity to do so.

“It’s an opportunity for us as a nation to wrap our arms around the Jewish community because people targeted because they were Jewish-Australians.

“Every Jewish-Australian felt that very deeply that evening and ever since as well. Today, we share their grief. A grief with no ending, only a beginning.”

Mr Albanese said there would be many events held today to make the day, including a minute of silence at 7.01pm.

More to come...