Associate Professor David Slucki, Director of the Australian Centre for Jewish Civilisation at Monash University, has described the Bondi Beach shooting during a Hanukkah gathering as the most violent antisemitic attack in Australia’s history, saying the scale of the loss has left the nation shaken and searching for meaning.
“We are deeply shaken by the senseless violence and loss of life at Bondi Beach yesterday,” Slucki said, noting that shots were fired during what should have been “a peaceful community gathering celebrating the festival of Chanukah”.
“This is the single most violent and deadly act of antisemitism in Australia’s history, and the worst mass shooting in this country since Port Arthur in 1996,” he said.
The attack unfolded shortly before 7pm on Sunday evening, when gunmen opened fire from a footbridge near Campbell Parade as Jewish families gathered to mark the first night of Hanukkah. Police said one attacker was killed at the scene and the second was taken to hospital with critical injuries. Multiple people were killed and dozens wounded, making it one of the deadliest acts of violence Australia has seen in decades.
“This tragic incident touches us all, it is not only about one community but about the well-being and security of every Australian who cherishes peace, democracy, and mutual respect.”
Slucki said the timing of the attack had compounded the trauma for many in the Jewish community.
“At a time when many in our community were gathering to bring light into the world, and to retell the story of Jews enduring persecution in the ancient world, we cannot find words sufficient to express the heartbreak and distress felt by so many,” he said.
“In a moment that should have been about hope and togetherness, we are confronted with violence and fear.”
“This tragic incident touches us all, it is not only about one community but about the well-being and security of every Australian who cherishes peace, democracy, and mutual respect.”
He said the impact of the attack extended far beyond one community.
“We are watching this situation with grave concern not only as members of the Jewish community but as Australians who believe in the safety and dignity of all people,” Slucki said.
“This tragic incident touches us all, it is not only about one community but about the well-being and security of every Australian who cherishes peace, democracy, and mutual respect.”
Police investigations continued on Monday as more details emerged about the attackers and the weapons used. According to reports by the Herald Sun and The Age, the gunmen were armed with high-powered rifles and fired between 30 and 50 rounds toward a crowd of more than 1,000 people. Police sources said two pipe bombs were also thrown toward the gathering, though neither detonated.
Authorities have identified one of the attackers as Naveed Akram, who was taken into custody and remains under police guard in hospital. His father, Sajid Akram, died at the scene after being shot by police. Officers later confirmed the two men were father and son and that the father was a licensed firearm owner.
Slucki said the attack came at a time of heightened global anxiety around antisemitism and community safety.
“At a time when antisemitism is rising in many parts of the world, and when communities everywhere are seeking reassurance and belonging, today’s events underscore the urgent need for thoughtful, compassionate responses that uphold the safety and inclusion of all Australians,” he said.
He also paid tribute to those responding in the aftermath of the shooting.
“We extend our heartfelt support to the emergency services, law enforcement and medical teams working tirelessly on the ground, and we pray for the swift recovery of those injured,” Slucki said.
As Australia enters a day of mourning and reflection, Slucki said the challenge now was to resist fear and division.
“In moments of darkness, we must continue to seek out and stand for light, unity and understanding,” he said. “Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and all those affected by this tragic event.”
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