Australians across the nation are preparing to light candles at 6:47 p.m. today (9:47 a.m. Israel time; 7:47 GMT) to collectively commemorate the exact moment the first shots rang out one week ago at Sydney’s Bondi Beach during an attack on a Jewish Hanukkah celebration that claimed 15 lives.

The federal and New South Wales state governments have declared today a National Day of Reflection, marking one week since Australia’s worst mass shooting since 35 people died in Tasmania in 1996. The attack is being investigated as an act of terrorism specifically targeting the Jewish community.

A Nation United in Remembrance

As families and friends of the victims continue to grieve, the entire nation has been called upon to pause at the exact moment last Sunday when terror struck the beloved beachside location. Flags across Australia are flying at half-mast, and communities from coast to coast are holding memorial services and vigils.

Throughout the week, the Prime Minister has joined with Jewish community leaders and worshippers, including attending a service at the Great Synagogue in Sydney where he honored the victims and celebrated the resilience of Australia’s Jewish community alongside Rabbi Ben Elton.

Islamic State Connection Under Investigation

In response to the evolving threat, authorities have significantly ramped up patrols and policing across the country to prevent further antisemitic violence. The heightened security presence has been particularly visible around Jewish community centers, synagogues, and cultural sites.

Major Security Review Announced

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced today a comprehensive review of the nation’s federal law enforcement and intelligence agencies following last week’s terror attack. The review aims to examine how the attack occurred and identify any gaps in Australia’s security infrastructure.

The National Security Committee has convened seven times since the attack, with Cabinet meeting regularly to coordinate the national response. The Prime Minister has personally visited Australian Federal Police and ASIO headquarters to thank personnel working on the investigation.

International Solidarity

The attack has drawn widespread international condemnation. United Nations Special Rapporteur Ben Saul issued a strong statement condemning what he called “hateful, antisemitic, terrorist violence against Australia’s Jewish community.”

Saul also acknowledged the courage of bystanders who helped victims, including one man who heroically tackled and disarmed a gunman. He praised the Australian Government’s ongoing efforts to counter rising antisemitism since October 7, 2023, and welcomed pledges to further strengthen security for the Jewish community.

Heroes and First Responders

Among the tragedy, numerous stories of courage have emerged. Lifesavers from Bondi and North Bondi Lifesaving Clubs ran toward danger to provide critical first aid. Medical professionals have worked around the clock caring for the injured, while thousands of Australians have queued at blood donation centers to help.

The government has announced new funding for both lifesaving clubs, which used significant resources responding to the crisis. The Prime Minister has promised that all heroes who saved lives that day will be appropriately recognized.

A Community’s Unbreakable Spirit

As Jewish Australians observed what the Prime Minister called “a Shabbat like none that have come before” yesterday, community leaders have emphasized that their spirit remains unbroken despite the trauma.

Tonight’s memorial service at Bondi carries the theme “A Night of Unity: Light Over Darkness,” echoing both the message of Hanukkah and Australia’s determination to stand together against hate and terror.

The government continues to work with Jewish community leaders on establishing a permanent memorial at Bondi Beach and planning a National Day of Mourning. Support services, including counseling and mental health assistance, remain available for all those affected by the attack.