Australia Urged to Stand Together After Bondi Beach Tragedy
15 Dec 2025
Political, medical, and community leaders across Australia are calling for unity and restraint following the fatal attack at Bondi Beach, as police continue investigations into what authorities have described as a targeted act of terrorism.
The violence unfolded on Sunday night during a Hanukkah gathering, when two armed individuals opened fire, killing 16 people and leaving more than 40 injured. Police confirmed the incident was aimed at the Jewish community. A 50-year-old man believed to be responsible was fatally shot by officers, while his 24-year-old son was critically injured and remains hospitalised under police guard.
The immediate response saw hundreds of police, paramedics, emergency workers, and members of the public rush to assist the injured and secure the area. Their actions have been widely recognised as lifesaving during an extraordinarily confronting situation.
As shock and grief ripple across the country, authorities have emphasised that anger must not turn into retaliation.
RACGP President and Sydney GP Dr Michael Wright said the attack would have far-reaching emotional consequences, particularly for patients, healthcare workers, and families.
“This is an incredibly distressing event,” Dr Wright said. “Our hearts go out to those who lost loved ones, to the injured, and to the first responders and community members who acted with courage in the face of danger. My colleagues in Sydney are very much in my thoughts.”
He said the timing of the attack—during a religious celebration and close to the festive season—has deepened the sense of loss.
“Australia’s strength is built on respect and inclusion,” Dr Wright said. “Moments like this remind us why compassion and understanding matter more than ever.”
Dr Wright encouraged healthcare professionals and the wider community to remain attentive to their own wellbeing and to seek support when needed.
“This tragedy will inevitably show up in our clinics,” he said. “Patients, staff, and GPs themselves may need extra care. Supporting one another is essential.”
Bondi Beach remained closed on Monday, with more than 300 NSW Police officers continuing forensic examinations and enquiries. NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon stressed that any form of retaliatory behaviour would not be tolerated.
“This is not a moment for revenge,” he said. “Our focus is on safety, calm, and ensuring the community can begin to recover.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the attack, describing it as a hate-driven act that struck at the heart of Australian values.
“Bondi Beach is a place associated with joy and togetherness,” he said. “What happened there was an attack on those ideals. The Jewish community is grieving, and Australia stands firmly with them. Antisemitism has no place in our society.”
In response to the incident, mental health services have been rapidly expanded. Support has been established at Bondi Pavilion by the South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, while the Central and Eastern Sydney Primary Health Network is providing resources and contacting local general practices.
Support services available include:
- Lifeline – 13 11 14
- Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636
- NSW Mental Health Access Line (24/7) – 1800 011 511
- Drs4Drs support programs nationwide
- Open Arms for veterans and families
RACGP members can also access free and confidential counselling through the GP Support Program on 1300 361 008.
News Source: RACGP
