Australia marks national day of mourning over Bondi attack

Australia today marks a national day of mourning for the devastation wrought by the December 14 Bondi Beach terror attack, which killed 15 innocent people.

Today, the national flag will fly at half mast at all federal government and New South Wales government buildings.

Other organisations and jurisdictions displaying the flag have been invited to join according to protocol.

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Bondi Beach terror attack

The theme of the day, chosen by the Chabad Community in Bondi, whose Hanukkah event was targeted in the attack, is "Light will win, a gathering of unity and remembrance".

National institutions in Canberra and in NSW will be illuminated as a symbol of light this evening.

And a commemorative installation, 15 Pillars of Light, will be in place in Canberra and around the country.

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"The pillars will be lit up in locations around the country and will serve as a visible symbol of mourning, remembrance, and national unity," Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said.

All Australians are encouraged to observe a minute's silence at 7.01pm, and to leave a lit candle in their window or on their doorstep in solidarity with the Jewish community.

Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek told Today people were also urged to perform a "mitzvah", an "act of goodness and kindness" for other Australians.

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"These acts can be as simple as checking in on a neighbour, volunteering time, offering support to local businesses, or donating to those in need," Albanese said earlier this week.

An invitation-only memorial event, organised by Chabad of Bondi, will be live-streamed from 7pm AEDT on the organisation's YouTube channel.

The Jewish community will also gather at the Sydney Opera House, which will be lit up in white in a gesture of solidarity and mourning.

"I'm very thankful the NSW Government for giving us this opportunity to reclaim it, not just for us as a Jewish community, but obviously for the whole Australia and globally," Rabbi Mendy Ulman said.

For more information, visit the federal government's information page about the day of mourning.



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