Rick Wilson (O'Connor, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

As literally the last opposition speaker on today's condolence motions, I've heard many fine contributions on the tragedy that was 14 December: speeches acknowledging the heartache and loss suffered by the families and loved ones of the 15 innocents who were killed on that fateful day in Bondi, and speeches acknowledging the heroism of those who ran towards gunfire to help their fellow Australians—heroes including members of the public, the police, paramedics and the lifesavers who are here in the gallery this morning, performing actions which, for many Australians, have restored their faith in the people of our great nation. These were everyday heroes not afraid to act bravely without thought for their personal safety.

I can only add my condolences on behalf of myself, my family and the communities across my vast electorate of O'Connor. Geographically, O'Connor is about as far away from Bondi Beach as you can get and still be within continental Australia, but Bondi holds a special part in the hearts of all Australians, and the people of O'Connor were shocked at the desecration of this most revered place. They were shocked that our Jewish community were singled out and targeted while celebrating the Festival of Lights, Hanukkah. They were shocked that families that had gathered to light candles, to sing and to pray were torn apart in a moment of mayhem and destruction.

My office has been inundated with calls from constituents offering condolences and sympathy for the loss. They were heartfelt and sincere. But beneath that genuine sympathy I detected a burning anger. People have asked: 'How did it come to this? How did we allow antisemitism to fester and grow to the point where innocent Australian families celebrating a religious festival at one of our most iconic beaches were gunned down in cold blood?' The call for a royal commission to find answers, which rang out across the country, was echoed by the good people of O'Connor. There is a steely determination by everyday Australians that this tragedy should never happen again in this country, and that is why the responsibility falls directly on our shoulders in this place. The condolences that have been expressed so eloquently here today will mean nothing if we do not act to prevent this tragedy being repeated.

We know some of the actions that are required already. Other measures will be recommended by the royal commission. Above all, we must all of us demonstrate leadership by condemning antisemitic hate when we see it. We need to demonstrate that as leaders of our communities we will not tolerate hateful slogans and marches targeting our Jewish brothers and sisters, because to do anything less will dishonour the memory of those who died so needlessly on 14 December at our nation's favourite beach. May all their memories live on in the hearts and minds of Australians, and may their legacy be a commitment to peace and tolerance for all fellow Australians without regard for religion or ethnicity. We are all one under our Australian flag, so may this be a watershed moment in our shared history.

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