Tasmanian Leaders Condemn Bondi Terror Attack

Tasmanian political leaders, community organisations and safety advocates have united to condemn the terror attack on the Jewish community at Bondi. The Premier, Tasmania Police and federal MPs offered condolences and reassurance to the Tasmanian community, while safety advocates reiterated calls for vigilance regarding gun control.

Media release – Jeremy Rockliff, Premier, 15 December 2025

Statement from the Premier

Premier Jeremy Rockliff offered his deep condolences to the people of New South Wales.

“I’ve reached out on behalf of all Tasmanians to Premier Chris Minns, offering our support and condolences, particularly to those who have lost loved ones, family and friends, and the broader New South Wales community,” Rockliff said.

“I want to acknowledge and pay tribute to all community members who ran to support each other through the horror and tragedy Australians witnessed at Bondi.

“The very best of people within this country – citizens supporting each other and, of course, the first responders who so bravely looked after those injured.

“This attack was directed at members of the Jewish community celebrating Hanukkah.

“This was an act of evil antisemitism, an act of terrorism. There is no place in Australia or anywhere for this violence.

“This morning, I convened the Emergency Management Committee of Cabinet. This includes Tasmanian Police Commissioner, Donna Adams.

“Tasmanian Police stands ready to support New South Wales if additional resources are required.

“Our Police service has a very strong relationship with the Tasmanian Jewish community, and they will continue to work with event organisers to ensure community safety is absolutely prioritised.

“I’ve spoken to some leaders within the Tasmanian Jewish community, and offered my sincere condolences.

“We will wrap our arms around the Tasmanian Jewish community. We are there to support each other in what is a time of deep distress and deep hurt.

“I want to reassure Tasmanians that Tasmania is a safe place and we will do everything needed to ensure that Tasmanians both feel and are safe in their community.”

Media release – Jeremy Rockliff, Premier; Bridget Archer, Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing, 15 December 2025

Tasmanians urged to reach out for support following Bondi tragedy

The Tasmanian Government is encouraging anyone who may be feeling distressed following the recent tragic events in Bondi to reach out for support and connection.

Premier Jeremy Rockliff said the horrific tragedy is hard for our community to process.

“Distressing events like this can affect people in different ways, and it’s important to remember you don’t have to manage those feelings on your own,” Rockliff said.

“If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious or isolated, I strongly encourage you to reach out to Tasmanian Lifeline.

“Tasmanian Lifeline is available to listen, provide emotional support, and help people navigate difficult feelings in the days and weeks after traumatic events.”

Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Bridget Archer, said while some people may feel like withdrawing after a traumatic event, research shows that talking and staying connected can help protect mental wellbeing.

“After distressing events, people may want to avoid reminders or find it hard to talk about how they’re feeling, but connection is one of the strongest protective factors for mental health,” Archer said.

“Seeking support from friends, family or other people that you trust can help you to cope better after a traumatic event.

“If you’re struggling, or even just need a conversation, please reach out.”

Media release – Donna Adams, Commissioner of Police, 15 December 2025

Statement from the Commissioner of Police

Our thoughts are with everyone affected by yesterday’s tragic events at Bondi.

We extend our deepest sympathies to the families and friends of those killed or injured.

Our heartfelt thoughts are also with the two members of our blue family from NSW Police injured in the incident.

Tasmania Police are engaged with our local Jewish community to provide reassurance at this challenging time.

There is no intelligence at this time indicating there is any heightened threat in Tasmania.

I will be writing to NSW Commissioner to offer our condolences and support, including any practical support that might be required.

Tasmania Police stands in solidarity with all those affected during this incredibly difficult time.

Media release – Vica Bayley MP, Greens Acting Leader, 15 December 2025

Statement on Sydney Chanukah Attack

The attack on the Sydney Jewish community celebrating Chanukah at Bondi Beach was an abhorrent act of targeted violence.

We condemn it wholeheartedly.

Hate and violence has no place in our society. Antisemitism has no place in our community.

Everyone should be able to safely practice their faith without fear of harm.

What should have been a joyful and sacred celebration has been turned into heartbreak.

Our thoughts are with the Tasmanian Jewish community who are no doubt grieving, feeling devastated and unsafe.

We stand with you in shock, sadness and condemnation.

We send our condolences to those who have family, friends and loved ones impacted by the attack at Bondi.

In the face of this atrocity, we must unite in care and compassion to reject extremist violence.

Media release – Hobart City Council, 15 December 2025

Bondi Attack – Statement from the Hobart City Council

We are deeply saddened by the tragic events that unfolded in Bondi.

Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with the victims, their families, and the entire Bondi and Jewish communities during this incredibly difficult time.

Moments like these remind us of the importance of unity and compassion.

As a community, we must come together to support one another, stand against violence and racism, and foster a sense of safety and care for all.

The City of Hobart stands in solidarity with Bondi, the first responders, emergency personnel and all those affected.

We encourage everyone to reach out, offer kindness, and look after each other.

Media release – Andrew Wilkie MP, Independent Member for Clark, 15 December 2025

A STATEMENT ON THE BONDI TERROR ATTACK

The people of the Clark electorate join the rest of Australia in condemning the horrific attack at Bondi Beach yesterday.

Our hearts go out to the Australian Jewish community, and in particular to everyone touched by this barbaric assault.

It was also an affront to the broader Australian community who are shocked, and distressed, that something so wicked and hateful would happen in our successful multicultural nation.

The heroism of those people who ran towards the danger to save others shines a light on the real character of this country.

Media release – Alannah & Madeline Foundation, 15 December 2025

Bondi tragedy an urgent reminder of the need to stay vigilant on gun control

The Alannah & Madeline Foundation is devastated by the horrific act of violence at Bondi Beach last night.

Our hearts go out to the victims, their families and the Jewish community.

We extend our deepest condolences to them and all those affected by this terrible attack, at a place Australians know and love so dearly.

While the details of this tragedy are still being investigated by authorities, it is a stark reminder of the urgent need for responsible gun safety measures.

As an organisation dedicated to keeping children safe from violence, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to advocating for a nation where no family has to endure this unimaginable pain.

Founder of the Alannah & Madeline Foundation, Walter Mikac AM said:

“Violence has no place in our society. Our hearts are with the Jewish community at this devasting time.

“After Port Arthur, Australia made a collective commitment to put community safety first, and that commitment remains as important today as ever.

“This is a horrific reminder of the need to stay vigilant against hate and violence, and of the importance of ensuring our gun laws continue to protect the safety of all Australians.”

Australian Gun Safety Alliance convenor and Alannah & Madeline Foundation advocacy advisor Stephen Bendle welcomed comments from NSW Premier Chris Minns suggesting that stronger – not weaker – firearm safety reforms would follow.

“The Alannah & Madeline Foundation welcomes and will support any progress made by governments at all levels to ensure Australia’s gun laws remain safe, responsible and strong. We will continue to build a future where children – and all people – can live safe from gun-related violence.”

Daunting and complex events like this can be deeply distressing for children and young people.

The Foundation encourages parents, carers and educators to support children through these moments by creating a safe space, listening to their concerns, reassuring them of their safety and helping them make sense of what they may be seeing or hearing in an age-appropriate way.

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