In a powerful display of unity and grief, the City of Newcastle has formally condemned the horrific terrorist attack in Bondi that targeted the Jewish community, killing 15 people and injuring many more.
A Council United in Grief and Condemnation
During an extraordinary meeting held on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, councillors from across the political spectrum voiced their collective horror and heartbreak. The attack, which occurred on Sunday, December 14—the first day of Hanukkah—is Australia's deadliest mass shooting since the Port Arthur massacre in 1996.
The council voted unanimously to take several symbolic actions. Newcastle City Hall will be illuminated in blue for a week as a beacon of solidarity and support for the victims, their families, and the broader Jewish community. All council flags have been lowered to half-mast, and a wreath was laid on behalf of all Novocastrians at the Newcastle Synagogue in Tyrrell Street, The Hill.
Voices from the Chamber: Rejecting Hate, Choosing Community
Councillors' statements reflected a city shaken but resolute. Liberal councillor Callum Pull emphasised the need for social cohesion, stating it was crucial to remind the Jewish community they are loved and that the nation stands as one. "We aspire for our nation to be one of social cohesion, where people can celebrate significant religious events in peace with their family," he said.
Independent councillor Mark Brooker extended the city's deepest condolences, acknowledging that while words cannot ease grief, collective recognition matters profoundly. "Newcastle stands with Bondi and with Jewish Australians," he affirmed.
Greens councillor Siobhan Isherwood warned against letting the violence fuel further division. "Let this act, this violent act, not be weaponised to justify yet more racism or fuel further division in our community," she urged. She highlighted the bravery of individuals like Ahmed Al Ahmed, who was shot while wrestling a gun from one of the attackers, as reflecting the true values of a caring, multicultural society.
A Message of Support and a Call for Vigilance
The council's motion unequivocally stated that hate and terror have no place in Australia, New South Wales, or Newcastle. It commended the heroic actions of first responders, police, paramedics, health workers, and members of the public who risked their lives during the attack.
The council also extended its formal support to Waverley Mayor Will Nemesh, Waverley Council, and all those affected. It reaffirmed that Newcastle is a city that welcomes people from all cultures, religions, and communities.
In a continued show of support, a Hanukkah candle-lighting vigil is scheduled for 7:30pm tonight at the Newcastle Synagogue. The council encourages anyone with information about extremist activity to contact the National Security Hotline on 1800 123 400.
Support services:
- Lifeline: 13 11 14
- Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800
- beyondblue: 1300 224 636
- 13YARN: 13 92 76
The community is also encouraged to donate blood via the Lifeblood website or app to help replenish supplies used in the emergency response.
