Australia to Hold National Day of Mourning for Bondi Attack Victims
Australia will observe a solemn national day of mourning on Thursday 22 January to honour the 15 victims of the devastating Bondi terror attack that occurred in December. The prime minister, Anthony Albanese, has formally announced the day as a period for the nation to collectively grieve and pay respects to those lost and affected by the tragedy at Bondi Beach during Hanukah celebrations.
Commemorative Events and Ceremonies Planned Nationwide
Major landmarks and government buildings across Australia will be illuminated in a powerful "symbol of light" on Thursday evening, reflecting the theme chosen by the Chabad community in Bondi: "Light will win, a gathering of unity and remembrance." Flags will be flown at half-mast from all federal and New South Wales government establishments, with other organisations encouraged to follow suit as a mark of respect.
A significant commemorative installation titled 15 Pillars of Light will be displayed in Canberra and various locations throughout the country. Each pillar serves as a visible representation of mourning, remembrance, and national solidarity, according to official government statements. This will be Australia's first national day of mourning since the passing of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022.
National Memorial Service and Public Participation
The Chabad of Bondi is organising an invitation-only national memorial service at 7pm AEDT, which will be livestreamed on their YouTube channel and broadcast on Sky News Australia. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and NSW Premier Chris Minns are scheduled to deliver addresses during this solemn event. In Melbourne, multifaith leaders will gather for a vigil at St Paul's Cathedral to show unity and support.
The prime minister has encouraged all Australians and television networks to observe a minute of silence at 7.01pm AEDT to honour those impacted by the shooting. Major broadcasters including the ABC, 7NEWS, SBS, NITV, and Sky News Australia have confirmed they will observe this moment of reflection across their networks and platforms.
Community Initiatives and Acts of Kindness
Australians are invited to participate in several meaningful ways, including placing a candle on their doorstep or window as a symbol of remembrance, mourning, and solidarity with the Jewish community. The government has also promoted the One Mitzvah for Bondi campaign, encouraging people of all faiths and backgrounds to perform acts of kindness in memory of the victims.
A mitzvah represents an act of kindness, compassion, or moral responsibility in Jewish tradition. The federal government has suggested 15 specific mitzvahs to perform on Thursday, corresponding to the number of lives lost. These range from visiting the sick and checking on neighbours to supporting local businesses and being kind to animals.
Practical Details and Public Response
Importantly, Thursday's day of mourning will not be a public holiday, and there is no formal requirement for events or businesses to suspend operations. However, organisations are encouraged to acknowledge the day appropriately if they wish to do so. An online condolence book remains available for people to share messages of support and remembrance for the Bondi Beach community.
Since the terror attack, there has been a remarkable response from the Australian public, including record numbers of blood donations and widespread participation in charitable initiatives. This national day of mourning represents an opportunity for the country to come together, reflect on the tragedy, and demonstrate unity in the face of adversity.
