Jodie Belyea (Dunkley, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

I stand in this parliament today, alongside 150 colleagues from all sides of politics, to offer my deepest condolences and to express my sorrow for those devastated by the Bondi terrorist attack on 14 December and for the tragic loss of 15 innocent lives and the injuries to 41 civilians.

It has been 36 days since Hanukkah. The festival of lights was darkened by an attack of terrorism on our shores, an attack fuelled by antisemitic ideology, hate and violence. The grief and anguish of those who lost loved ones and the deep wound inflicted on Jewish people, the Jewish community and Jewish culture in Australia are immeasurable. We are a country in mourning.

I cannot claim to fully comprehend the pain of profound loss, and the anger or the fear that comes from being targeted because of one's culture, one's faith or one's identity in this manner. But I can acknowledge it and I can honour it. As the representative of Dunkley, I stand in solidarity with those carrying the weight of the profound grief that comes from losing beloved family members and friends, religious leaders and community members. I stand with the Bondi community, the Jewish community and my Jewish family members, friends and colleagues.

To those on the ground on 14 December, the first responders—the police, medical staff, lifesavers and bystanders who bravely put their lives at risk as they ran into gunfire, protected children and lent a hand to support those who were injured: thank you. You are national heroes. Despite the terror you felt at the time, you demonstrated the very best of the Australian spirit.

As a person of faith, in times of profound sorrow and loss I return to my faith and values to help guide me. This morning, at the opening of parliament, we recited the Lord's Prayer. In that moment I was reminded of the responsibility and compassion that we must anchor our work in as representatives of the people. I was reminded of our responsibility as Australians to respect one another.

This week in parliament we will consider legislation on hate speech, extremism and gun laws—measures aimed at combating antisemitism and strengthening social cohesion in this country. Hatred and violence based on race, religion and identity have no place in Australia. Those of us in this parliament, representing our country, have a choice. We have an opportunity to reclaim the light from darkness in honour of those who lost their lives and those who will hold the trauma of the Bondi attack with them for the rest of their lives. May the memories of those we have tragically lost guide our deliberations this week, bringing us together in unity, committed to the care, protection and safety of Jewish people and to social cohesion. If Australia is to remain a nation that believes in a fair go for all, we must work together as a parliament, leading the way, role-modelling inclusion and respect. That is my commitment.

On the national day of mourning, this Thursday, 22 January, may we as a nation honour those who lost their lives, by standing together, stronger, kinder and more united as a country and as a people, unwavering in our solidarity that no act of terror could ever hope to break. That light will prevail over dark. I commend this motion to the House.

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