In a poignant moment of national reflection, Australia’s federal parliament gathered in Canberra on Monday to pay tribute to the 15 victims of the horrific terror attack at Bondi Beach. Lawmakers observed a minute’s silence, honoring those lost during a Hanukkah celebration targeted by extremists on December 14.
The session, convened ahead of debates on proposed anti-terror laws, began with a resolution remembering the tragedy. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed the assembly with deep emotion, stating, ‘In this moment of sorrow, our parliament has come together to remember them, to extend the sympathies of our nation to those who knew and loved them best.’
Prominent Jewish MP Josh Burns, a key figure in Albanese’s Labor government, emphasized that Australia’s response to the attack will define its character. ‘We must not dehumanize each other, for dehumanization is what fueled the Bondi atrocity,’ he declared.
The attack, carried out by Naveed Akram and his father Sajid, was inspired by Islamic State ideology. Police neutralized Sajid during the response, but not before 15 lives were claimed in a barrage of gunfire aimed at the Jewish community.
Earlier, Albanese announced January 22 as a National Day of Mourning. Flags will fly at half-mast across government buildings under the theme ‘Victory of Light,’ symbolizing unity against darkness. ‘The terrorists at Bondi Beach had hate in their minds and guns in their hands. This legislation will tackle both, and we must confront both,’ the Prime Minister affirmed.
Parliament was recalled two weeks early from its summer recess to enact tougher laws on hate speech and gun ownership, signaling a firm stance against future threats. As the nation mourns, leaders vow to strengthen safeguards while fostering compassion in a divided world.
