Australian Baha’i community releases statement in wake of Bondi shooting
The national governing body of the Baha’is of Australia, the National Spiritual Assembly, has released a statement in the wake of the Bondi terror attack expressing its heartfelt support.
The attack took place on the first night of the Jewish celebration of Chanukkah when two gunmen opened fire at Bondi Beach. At least 15 people were killed in the attack and dozens more were injured.
The National Spiritual Assembly stated that the Australian Baha’i community was deeply saddened by this act of terror, and extended its “love, support and solidarity to the Jewish community of Australia”.
“Such appalling acts of antisemitism and violence have no place in our society. All Australians and all communities have the right to practice and celebrate their faith without fear, free from hatred or terror.”
The National Spiritual Assembly has written directly to national and state Jewish organisations across the country to express its condolences, love, and support.
A special prayer service will be organised at the Sydney Baha’i House of Worship on Tuesday, December 23 for victims and those affected, and for the healing and coming together of the country.
For anyone who needs support, Lifeline, the national crisis support hotline, is available on 13 11 14.
Read the message in its entirety below:
Statement by the Australian Baha’i community
National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of Australia
The Australian Baha’i community is deeply saddened by the devastating act of terror that occurred yesterday at Bondi, as members of the Jewish community in New South Wales celebrated the first night of Chanukkah.
We extend our love, support and solidarity to the Jewish community of Australia and offer our condolences on the heartbreaking loss of life. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and communities who have lost their leaders and loved ones, and with all who have been affected. We hope for the full recovery of all those who have suffered injuries.
Such appalling acts of violence and antisemitism have no place in our society. All Australians and all communities have the right to practice and celebrate their faith without fear, free from hatred or terror.
An attack on a faith community and its leaders, engaged in peaceful celebration of a religious festival, is an attack on us all. Such attacks must only reinforce our sacred commitment to work together with all well-wishers of humanity towards a socially cohesive and inclusive society based on shared values of unity, peace, respect and the oneness of humanity.
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National Spiritual Assembly
News and announcements from Australia’s guiding body – the National Spiritual Assembly.
Published in December, 2025, in Baha'i Institutions > News & Announcements
Available online at: horizons.bahai.org.au/bahai-institutions/australian-bahai-community-releases-statement-in-wake-of-bondi-shooting/
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