Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Sussan Ley have delivered Christmas messages to millions of Australians, calling for peace and healing in the aftermath of the Bondi terrorist attack.
In a statement, Albanese paid tribute to the victims of the mass shooting, saying this year’s Christmas felt different from those before.
“After the terror inflicted on Jewish Australians celebrating Chanukah at Bondi Beach, we feel the weight of sorrow in our hearts,” he said.
“As Christmas brings its message of love and compassion, we grieve those whose lives were stolen—and those whose lives were changed forever.”
The prime minister then praised the courage of brave individuals who acted selflessly during the incident, noting that it reflected the Australian spirit and values.
“Together, we give thanks for the extraordinary courage that shone so brightly through the darkness. A powerful reminder that, in the worst of times, we see the very best of the Australian character,” he said.
“It is in that spirit that Christmas brings Australians together to celebrate all that we have and all that we share.”
Albanese also expressed his gratitude to essential workers, emergency personnel, volunteers, and Defence Force staff who remain on duty during the Christmas holiday.
“To each and every Australian, I wish you a Christmas of peace, safety and love. A Christmas where we stand together, united. A Christmas of healing and one of hope,” he said.
A Test for Australians: Opposition Leader
Ley said this Christmas came at “a time of deep sorrow and reflection” for Australia, with communities still mourning the significant loss of life.
However, she noted that moments like this were a test of character for Australians.
“They ask who we are as a people and what we choose to stand for. Hatred and extremism have no place in Australia. Anti-Semitism has no place in Australia,” Ley said.
“Our strength as a nation lies in our decency, our courage, and our willingness to stand together, especially when it is hard.”
Amid the sorrowful atmosphere, the opposition leader stated that Christmas brought about a positive message, which was needed more than ever.
“Christians like me will be celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, and with his arrival a message of peace, hope and joy,” she said.
“They call upon us to come for the grieving, reject division and deepen our resolve to love and care for one another.”
While acknowledging the challenges posed by high living costs over the past year, Ley wished Australians a safe Christmas and better times ahead.
“As Australians, from my family to yours, I wish you a safe and meaningful Christmas and may the year ahead bring healing, renewal and peace,” she said.
Special Honours List for Bondi Responders
In another development, Albanese announced that he had applied to the governor-general for a special honours list for Bondi responders.
“Today I’ve written to the governor-general requesting the creation of a special honours list in response to this horrific terrorist attack, for awards to be put in place as part of the Australian honours and awards system,” he said.
“This would recognise those individuals nominated and recommended for a bravery or a meritorious award in response to the Bondi terrorist attack.
“The attack did show us the worst of humanity, hatred, violence. It also showed us the best of humanity, extraordinary acts of bravery and courage, acts of kindness for fellow Australians.”
Meanwhile, 12 victims are still hospitalised and recovering from their injuries 10 days after the mass shooting.
Among them, seven are in a stable condition, while the remaining five are in a critical but stable condition.
Friends Read Free
Copy
Facebook
Tweet
