Opposition Leader Sussan Ley has used her first Christmas message in the role to deliver a unifying appeal to Australians, urging the nation to stand together in the wake of the devastating Bondi Beach terror attack.
In a statement released on Tuesday evening, Ms Ley reflected on the national grief following the December 14 attack, in which gunmen opened fire at a Hanukkah celebration in Bondi, killing 15 people and injuring dozens more. The massacre, described by authorities as ISIS-inspired, has deeply shaken Australia’s Jewish community and sparked a broader national reckoning on extremism and social cohesion.
Ms Ley, who has spent time in Bondi meeting with members of the Jewish community since the attack, said this year’s Christmas arrived “at a time of deep sorrow and reflection” for the country.
“Only days ago, families gathered to celebrate faith and community,” she said. “Instead, Australia witnessed an act of hatred and violence that stole innocent lives from our Jewish community on the first night of Hanukkah.”
She emphasised that the tragedy was a test of national character, calling on Australians to reject hatred and division in all forms.
“Hatred and extremism have no place in Australia,” Ms Ley said. “Anti-Semitism has no place in Australia. Our strength lies in our decency, our courage, and our willingness to stand together, particularly in moments of pain.”
Drawing on her Christian faith, the Opposition Leader highlighted the values traditionally associated with Christmas — peace, hope and compassion — describing them as more vital than ever amid national mourning.
“These values call on us to comfort the grieving, reject division and care for one another,” she said.
Beyond the tragedy in Bondi, Ms Ley also acknowledged the mounting cost-of-living pressures affecting households across the country, noting that many families were facing a difficult Christmas as power bills and everyday expenses continued to rise.
“If you are struggling, please know that you are not alone,” she said. “Your community matters, and you deserve leadership that listens and acts.”
Ms Ley concluded her message by expressing confidence in Australia’s resilience, saying that despite grief and uncertainty, she had witnessed compassion and solidarity across the nation.
“This Christmas, we remember those we have lost, we stand with those who are hurting, and we hold fast to the values that unite us as Australians,” she said.
