The Federal and NSW Governments have declared Sunday, December 21 a Day of Reflection to honour the victims of the horrific terrorist attack at Bondi Beach and to stand in solidarity with the Jewish community.
The Commonwealth and State government will also work closely with the Jewish community on arrangements for a National Day of Mourning to be held in the New Year. This will allow families the time and space to lay their loved ones to rest and to support those still recovering.
The Day of Reflection will be observed on the final full day of Chanukah, a time traditionally associated with light, faith and resilience, making the loss felt by the Jewish community even more profound. All Australians share in their grief.
On Sunday, flags on Australian and NSW Government buildings will be flown at half-mast as a mark of respect for the lives lost and the grief shared across the country.
People across the country are invited to light a candle at 6:47pm, one week since the attack unfolded, as a quiet act of remembrance with family, friends or loved ones. Australians are also being asked to observe a minute of silence.
The day is about standing with the Jewish community, wrapping our arms around them, and sharing their grief as one state. It is a moment to pause, reflect, and affirm that hatred and violence will never define who we are.
The Day will include a number of ways to help the state reflect:
- Buildings will light up yellow for the evening.
- Light will beam into the sky from Bondi Pavilion.
- NSW Government will support Jewish leaders to deliver a community memorial event.
- Television and radio networks will be asked to pause for a minute’s silence at 6.47pm.
- A shareable candle image, will be used on social media to pledge support for Jewish Australians. This will be available on nsw.gov.au
The NSW Government has also partnered with Rotary to establish a dedicated fundraising appeal for the Bondi Beach attack.
The Unite for Bondi – Bondi Terror Attack Appeal will provide support to the survivors and families of those who lost their lives. People who wish to donate can do so via rawcs.org.au
Supports are available for everyone impacted by this attack. Information is at www.nsw.gov.au/bondibeachattack
