Elizabeth Watson-Brown (Ryan, Australian Greens) Share this | Hansard source

I was unable to speak earlier on the formal Bondi condolence motion brought to this parliament, so I rise today to express my support for that motion. My heart goes out to the victims of the horrific, antisemitic terrorist attack at Bondi Beach on 14 December last year. I, again, extend my condolences to those victims, to their families and to the whole Jewish community. It was an appalling, reprehensible act of terrorism targeting Jewish Australians at what should have been a joyous celebration. Fifteen lives were cut far too short, including 10-year-old Matilda. Her parents chose that name because it's so iconically Australian. We must remember what terrorism is by definition designed to do, and that is to sow hate and division. We must reject that hate and division across the board. That is what we, in this parliament, as representatives of all Australians, have a serious responsibility to demonstrate and to uphold.

I reflect in gratitude on the incredible bravery of Ahmed Al Ahmed, who risked his life to save others. I thank the thousands of Australians who, in the days after the attack, donated much-needed blood. It is these acts of kindness that must define us as a nation.

See this speech in context