Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will be absent from the funeral of the youngest victim of the Bondi Junction terror attack, following strong public criticism from the child's grieving parents. The service for 10-year-old Matilda is being held in Sydney today.
Family's Anger and Political Fallout
The Prime Minister's office confirmed his non-attendance, stating he was 'not invited' to the ceremony. This development follows a torrent of backlash from the Jewish community and represents another significant political blow for Albanese in the wake of the tragedy.
In emotional statements made on Wednesday, Matilda's parents, Valya and Michael, directly criticised the Prime Minister's leadership. Valya accused Albanese of failing her daughter and every other victim of the attack, asserting that more government action could have prevented the tragedy.
"He has failed my daughter and failed every victim of the tragedy, and had they done more, this would not have happened," Valya stated when questioned on whether the government had done enough to combat antisemitism in Australia.
'A Betrayal' of the Jewish Community
Matilda's father, Michael, was equally forthright, lashing out at the Prime Minister for not doing enough to protect Jewish citizens. "He has betrayed the Jewish people of Australia, and of the whole world," Michael said. "Like what the hell is he thinking? And it showed what happened."
The parents, who wore stickers featuring Matilda and little bees yesterday, expressed gratitude for the public support they have received. They shared touching memories of their daughter, describing a child who "loved to dance, sing and play with her sister."
A Sister's Purple Tribute
Valya revealed that Matilda's younger sister, Summer, is struggling profoundly with the loss. The child does not want to look at photos of her sister but is honouring her memory by wearing her favourite colour.
"At the moment she is wearing a purple t-shirt, she just wants everything to be purple, it was Matilda's favourite colour," Valya explained.
Hundreds of mourners, including friends, family, and political leaders, are expected to gather in Sydney to farewell Matilda. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley is anticipated to be among the attendees, highlighting the continued political resonance of the event.
