Sunday will mark a solemn day of reflection in Sydney as the city mourns the 15 victims of last week’s terror attack in Bondi. Premier Chris Minns is urging citizens to avoid a controversial anti-immigration rally, promoted by One Nation’s Barnaby Joyce, which is set to take place in central Sydney despite the Premier’s calls for a summer of calm.
Joyce has encouraged his supporters to participate in the rally, which demands the government be “sacked.” However, Minns has made a public appeal for restraint, stating, “Don’t do it. Don’t go ahead with it right now – people are burying their dead,” during an appearance on Nine’s Today program.
Police Opposition and Legal Concerns
NSW Police have confirmed that the rally organizers applied for authorization last Wednesday. However, the police opposed the application, and negotiations subsequently broke down. In a statement, police warned, “Without this authorization, the event is not legally protected as an authorized assembly, and individuals who choose to attend may be liable for obstruction and unlawful assembly offenses.”
This development follows a broader call for calm from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who has stated that rallies “seeking to sow division” should not proceed.
The Aftermath of the Bondi Attack
The rally comes just a week after a horrific attack at Bondi Beach, where gunmen Naveed Akram, 24, and his father Sajid Akram, 50, opened fire on a Hanukkah celebration, killing 15 people and injuring dozens more. Thirteen of those wounded remain hospitalized, with four in critical but stable condition.
In response, Australians have been invited to light a candle at 6:47 pm on Sunday and observe a minute’s silence to mark the tragic event. “The National Day of Reflection will be observed on the final day of Chanukah, a time traditionally associated with light, faith, and resilience,” stated the prime minister’s department.
Government Response and Future Measures
In the wake of the attack, Premier Minns has announced plans to introduce new legislation on Monday that would ban large protests following terror attacks, ensuring that any such gatherings attract a significant police presence.
Furthermore, Minns has confirmed that NSW will conduct a state-led royal commission into the Bondi attack. “We need to have an independent investigation,” he said on Channel Seven’s Sunrise. “I’ve got bits and pieces of the jigsaw puzzle. We know parts of why this occurred on Sunday, but until we have the full picture, and I can explain that to the people of NSW, well, our job’s not done.”
The terms of reference for the royal commission are yet to be drafted, with Minns emphasizing the importance of consulting with Jewish community leaders who have been deeply affected by the attack.
Community Support and Resources
As the community grapples with the impact of the attack, various support services have been made available:
- Bondi Beach Victim Services: 1800 411 822
- Bondi Beach Public Information & Enquiry Centre: 1800 227 228
- NSW Mental Health Line: 1800 011 511 or Lifeline: 13 11 14
- Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 or chat online at kidshelpline.com.au
Meanwhile, flags across the city will fly at half-mast, buildings will be illuminated in yellow, and lights will beam into the sky from Bondi Pavilion, symbolizing solidarity and remembrance.
As Sydney navigates this challenging period, the community’s resilience and unity remain paramount. The coming weeks will be critical in understanding the full implications of the attack and ensuring such tragedies are prevented in the future.
