I am so shocked, distraught and terribly saddened by the events at Bondi Beach this afternoon. Whilst details are still unfolding as to the perpetrators and motivation, what we do know is that members of the Jewish community have been killed and injured while celebrating a festival of peace, light and optimism – Hanukkah. As an Australian, I feel strongly this is not our country. This is not who we are as a nation; as a people. This is an attack on Australia as well as an attack on our Jewish community.
My love, prayers and support are with all those directly and indirectly affected – especially the Jewish community. And my sincerest condolences to those who have lost loved ones in this horror today.
And to our emergency service colleagues and those members of the community who have given compassionate and skilled care to those injured today. You are the best of us and your service is highly valued and respected by all. Take care of yourselves in the aftermath of this horror.
We are strong together. We will get through this. But we will never forget.
Professor Mark Compton AM GCStJ
Lord Prior
14th December 2025
