Diversity Council Australia is profoundly saddened by the tragic violence that unfolded at Bondi Beach during a Hanukkah celebration. What should have been a joyful gathering to mark the first night of the Jewish festival of lights turned into an act of terror that has shaken communities across the nation and globally.
Everyone has the right to safety, respect and belonging. We stand firmly against violence, hatred and discrimination in all its forms.
We extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those killed or injured and we hold in our hearts all those impacted by these events.
In this moment of profound sorrow, we echo the call for unity and resilience. As Australia collectively mourns, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering communities where our diversity is honoured, and where violence, hatred and fear find no foothold.
DCA also recognise that events like this can fuel fear or prejudice against other communities. We must continue standing up for the safety and rights of all.
We stand with all affected by this tragedy, and we urge everyone across Australia to continue to stand together in support of safe and inclusive communities.
In light of this tragic event, we have made our member-only DCA resource on Supporting an inclusive workplace in difficult times publicly available to all.
Resources:
For those seeking support during this time, help is available:
- NSW Government Bondi Beach attack resource page
- Including a dedicated helpline for victims and family members: 1800 411 822
- Lifeline Australia (24-hour crisis line): 13 11 14
- Lifeline with interpretation service 13 14 50 – say your language and then state Lifeline 13 11 14
- Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
- Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800
- Suicide Call Back: 1300 659 467
- Witness to War (multilingual phoneline for people affected by overseas conflicts): 1800 845 198
- Embrace Multicultural Mental Health (supports people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds).
For an extensive list of specific community-focused support services, see DCA’s Supporting an inclusive workplace in difficult times resource.
