Albanese and Ley call for healing after Bondi terror attack
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Sussan Ley have shared their hopes for a period of healing in their Christmas messages less than 10 days after the Bondi terror attack, where 15 people were killed after two gunmen targeted a Hanukkah festival.
While both messages remained largely apolitical, offering thanks to first responders, defence personnel and those who work through the holidays, Ley called for stronger leadership from the government, particularly singling out Australians’ struggle with the cost of living.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Sussan Ley earlier this year.Credit: Alex Ellinghausen
But both the Labor and Liberal leaders said that this holiday season would be one overshadowed by the tragedy of the Bondi shooting on December 14.
“Wherever you are across our wonderful country, Christmas will feel different this year. After the terror inflicted on Jewish Australians celebrating Chanukah at Bondi Beach, we feel the weight of sorrow in our hearts,” Albanese said in his message.
“As Christmas brings its message of love and compassion, we grieve those whose lives were stolen – and those whose lives were changed forever. Together, we give thanks for the extraordinary courage that shone so brightly through the darkness. A powerful reminder that in the worst of times we see the very best of the Australian character.
“We give thanks to our emergency personnel, our medical workers, our hospitality and charity workers – and so many more. Likewise the volunteers who spend the season of giving devoting their time and energy to serving those in need, exemplifying the Australian spirit of kindness, generosity and compassion.
“To each and every Australian, I wish you a Christmas of peace, safety and love. A Christmas where we stand together, united. A Christmas of healing and one of hope.”
Similarly, Ley said that this year would be a holiday that came “at a time of deep sorrow and reflection for our nation”.
“Just days ago, families and friends gathered in Bondi to celebrate faith and community. Instead, Australia witnessed an act of hatred and violence that took innocent lives from our Jewish community on the first night of Hanukkah,” she said.
