Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has paid tribute to the victims of the Bondi Beach terror attack, laying flowers at the site where the deadly incident unfolded.
Accompanied by police officers, the Prime Minister paused in silence as he placed the floral tribute, marking a moment of national mourning and solidarity.
Earlier, Mr Albanese strongly condemned the attack and reiterated his government’s commitment to stamping out antisemitism, declaring that Australia would “wrap our arms around” the Jewish community. He described the attack as an assault not only on those directly affected but also on the values of safety, tolerance, and unity that underpin Australian society.
Authorities and support organisations have urged those affected to access services designed to help families reconnect. The Australian Red Cross has activated its Register.Find.Reunite service, encouraging people impacted by the incident to register and let loved ones know they are safe.
Australian Red Cross NSW director Jacob Walsh said that being separated from family and friends during an emergency is one of the most distressing experiences a person can endure. He noted that uncertainty and the inability to make contact significantly heighten anxiety and stressed that the service plays a critical role in helping families locate and reunite with each other during disasters. The Register.Find.Reunite platform allows individuals to register or search for someone through the Red Cross website on any computer or mobile device. Where a match is made and consent is provided, those searching are notified.
Health authorities have also appealed to the public to support hospitals by donating blood, following a call from NSW Premier Chris Minns. Officials emphasised that blood supplies are vital in the wake of major incidents such as the Bondi Beach attack, particularly over the next 24 hours, while urging potential donors to check their eligibility before attending donation centres.
Kyriakos Mitsotakis condemns terrorist attack
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis issued a message condemning the deadly terrorist attack during a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach in Sydney, in which 12 people were killed, including one of the perpetrators.
In a post on X, Mitsotakis stated that he is “deeply shocked by today’s attacks in Sydney during the Hanukkah celebrations. I strongly condemn this violence. We stand in solidarity with Jewish communities everywhere,” adding that “antisemitism and hatred have no place in our societies.”
The attack has also prompted heightened security measures around Hanukkah events in major cities worldwide. In New York City, Mayor Eric Adams announced increased protection for synagogues and public Menorah lightings, assuring the Jewish community that authorities would ensure celebrations could proceed safely. He called for prayers for the injured and unity against hatred.
In Berlin, police intensified security around the Brandenburg Gate, where a large electric Menorah was lit to mark the first night of Hanukkah. German authorities confirmed that comprehensive measures had already been planned but were further strengthened in light of the events in Sydney. London’s Metropolitan Police likewise announced an increased presence, additional patrols, and engagement with the Jewish community, stressing that while there was no specific intelligence linking the Sydney attack to threats in the UK, precautions were being taken to reassure communities and maintain public safety.
