Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was escorted away from a candlelight vigil at Bondi Beach under heavy police protection on Sunday night, after sections of the crowd heckled and shouted abuse as he attended a memorial marking one week since the deadly terrorist attack.
Mr Albanese and his wife, Jodie Haydon, were ushered out of the area by Australian Federal Police officers shortly after arriving, as New South Wales Police formed a security cordon between the Prime Minister and members of the public. Several individuals were heard shouting insults, including accusations that the Prime Minister was “weak” and claims that he bore responsibility for the attack.
The tense scenes unfolded during a National Day of Reflection, declared to honour the 15 victims killed when two gunmen opened fire at a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach exactly one week earlier. Australians were asked to light candles at 6.47pm, the precise time the attack began.
It was Mr Albanese’s first return to Bondi since his brief visit the morning after the massacre. He arrived at the vigil accompanied by senior ministers, including Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles and Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke, but was repeatedly booed as he made his way through the crowd.
While the Prime Minister remained silent throughout the ceremony, the reaction contrasted sharply with the reception given to former prime minister John Howard, who was greeted with applause, and to NSW Premier Chris Minns, who received a standing ovation after delivering an emotional address.
In his speech, Mr Minns offered a rare public apology on behalf of the state, acknowledging failures in public safety and accepting responsibility for ensuring such an attack is never repeated. His remarks were met with strong approval from the crowd.
Security at the vigil was exceptionally tight. Riot police were deployed, snipers were positioned on nearby rooftops, and officers detained at least one individual during the event. The measures reflected heightened concerns about public safety following the attack, which has deeply shaken the nation.
Several speakers addressed the gathering, including Governor-General Sam Mostyn, who reaffirmed Australia’s rejection of antisemitism and praised the bravery of first responders and civilians. A 14-year-old survivor, who shielded two younger children during the shooting, delivered a powerful account of courage and faith that drew silence and tears from the crowd.
The Prime Minister’s presence has remained controversial in the days since the attack, particularly after it emerged he did not attend several funerals for victims. Government sources have indicated this was done out of respect for grieving families who did not wish for political attention during private ceremonies.
Despite the hostility he faced, Mr Albanese has said he has met privately with affected families and community leaders and will continue to engage as investigations and security reviews continue.
The Bondi attack has reignited intense national debate over antisemitism, radicalisation and public safety, with calls growing for stronger action and accountability at all levels of government.
