Sarah Witty (Melbourne, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

Today we come together in grief, reflection and resolve. The attack in Bondi shocked our nation. In a place known for openness, community and everyday life, innocent people were targeted while celebrating their faith. What should have been a day of celebration was transformed into one of horror, loss and heartbreak.

On behalf of the people of Melbourne, I extend my deepest condolences to the families and friends of those who were murdered on that day. No words spoken here can ease the pain of loss. The sudden, violent taking of loved ones leaves an absence that can never be filled. I cannot bear to imagine the terror and heartbreak of that day, when two alleged terrorists made the decision to take the lives of innocent people simply because they were celebrating their faith.

Although I can't imagine how terrifying it was, I can picture how the day began—with joy and with families and friends gathered together, sharing laughter and tradition. To imagine that kind of happiness suddenly turning into fear, violence and loss is unbearable. Australians were killed. Australians were injured. Recovery will not be quick or simple. It will take time, support and compassion.

The parliament and the nation stand with the families who lost loved ones, with Jewish Australians and with the people of Bondi. In moments of terror we also saw moments of extraordinary courage. We saw first responders, lifeguards, police and paramedics who acted swiftly and selflessly under immense pressure. Their bravery saved lives. Everyday Australians ran towards danger to help strangers and refused to look away. These acts of courage remind us of who we are at our best. This was an act of terrorism, intended to not only harm individuals but instil fear and division in our society. It will not succeed.

This attack targeted Jewish people, striking at a community that is a part of the fabric of everyday Australian life and which has, in recent times, faced an alarming rise in hatred and intimidation. I have spoken with many Jewish Melburnians who have deeply felt the effects of 14 December. Rabbi Herzog of Melbourne said that the Jewish community is not separate from Australian society; it is woven into it. Jewish Australians are our neighbours, our colleagues and our friends. When antisemitism appears it is not an attack on someone else; it is an attack on who we are as a nation. We must stamp out all hatred. We must not excuse it, minimise it or tolerate it in any form. All Australians, including Jewish Australians, deserve to live in safety, dignity and peace.

Rabbi Gutnick, of East Melbourne, has spoken with honesty about the feelings many Australians are experiencing. It is natural to feel angry. It is natural to feel helpless. It is natural to ask, 'What can I do?' His answer is both simple and powerful: 'More than you think.' We may not be able to do everything. We may not be able to do a lot, but we can do something no matter how small. Rabbi Gutnick spoke of the fire at the East Melbourne synagogue in July 2025. The congregation received an outpouring of support: cards filled with beautiful words, flowers and messages of solidarity from people of different faiths. After the tragedy there was an explosion of kindness. It's a reminder that, while hatred is loud, care is widespread. The rabbi reminded me that reaching into the plight of others is how we find repair. It is how all of us together turn tragedy into a deeper partnership across civil society, each of us doing what we can to build a flourishing, inclusive nation.

Australia is a country built on diversity, freedom and mutual respect. We will not allow violence or hatred to define us. Nor will we allow any community to be blamed or vilified for the actions of these two individuals. Our response must be guided by unity, not suspicion, and by strength, not fear. May the memories of those who were murdered at Bondi be a blessing to their families and friends. May those who are healing find strength and care in the weeks and months ahead. And may we, as representatives of the Australian people, meet this moment with dignity, compassion and unity.

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