There has been raw emotion at Bondi today as Australians mark a Day of Reflection one week on from the terror attack that killed 15 innocent people.
The victims will be remembered at a beachside vigil this evening, with thousands expected to gather to reflect.
There are set to be speeches from victims, grieving families and dignitaries before the lighting of the menorah.
Dr Monique Ryan MP stands by Sam Mostyn, the Governor-General of Australia at a women from all backgrounds gathering at Bondi Beach, marking one week since the Bondi Terror attacks. (Jessica Hromas)
It has already been a day of high emotion, with flags flying at half mast and a banner flown over Bondi showing love for the Jewish community.
Thousands gathered dressed in white for an event this afternoon outside Bondi Pavillion, organised by the National Council of Jewish Women.
The all-faiths event saw multiple figures from both sides of politics attend.
Governor-General Sam Mostyn said political affiliations did not matter on such a day.
“I’m speaking to you not only as your governor-general, but also as a mother, as a friend, as a woman,” she said.
“We’re here in white, in the spirit of light, we must take that forward.”
Independent MP Monique Ryan and Shadow Communications Minister Melissa McIntosh were also in attendance.
Women from all backgrounds gather at Bondi Beach and mark one week since the terror attack. (Jessica Hromas)
Bondi prepares to remember moment terror attack unfolded
The women who gathered laid flowers at the memorial on Bondi Beach.
Inflatable balloons of bees were also seen, in memory of Matilda, the 10-year-old girl who was killed in the shooting who was affectionately known as “Bee”.
Friends and families of other victims also returned to Bondi to pay tribute to those who died.
This included members of the Randwick Rugby Club, who lost one of their members Peter Meagher.
A message of support was flown over Bondi Beach today. (Nine)
“He was a huge part of our club and we don’t want to talk much today,” club president Brian O’Sullivan said.
“We’ve just come here to pay respects to all the victims and to lay down a couple of special memories for us.”
A light plane was flown over the beach this afternoon with a banner bearing a message of support.
“From Aus for our Jewish Community”, the message read, with a red heart.
A police boat patrols Bondi Beach in Sydney, Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025, ahead of a ceremony to mark the National Day of Reflection for victims and survivors from the Bondi shooting (AP Photo/Mark Baker)
At 6.47pm AEDT, exactly one week since the first shots rang out, people across the country and at Bondi are being urged to light a candle and observe a minute’s silence.
TV and radio networks are also being asked to participate in the minute’s silence.
“Sixty seconds carved out from the noise of daily life, dedicated to 15 Australians who should be with us today,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said.
“It will be a moment of pause to reflect and affirm that hatred and violence will never define us as Australians.”
The memorial at Bondi Pavilion. (Getty)
All flags on NSW and Australian government buildings are being flown at half-mast in a mark of respect for the lives lost and to commemorate the shared grief.
Bondi will reflect on and pay tribute to the victims of the attack with the addition of a light display, which will beam a ray of light into the sky from Bondi Pavilion.
Condolence messages and tributes banners are displayed at Bondi Beach. (Getty)
The NSW government said it will support Jewish leaders to deliver a community memorial event today too.
Thousands of people are expected to keep vigil at Bondi, including the prime minister.
“The National Day of Reflection will be observed on the final day of Chanukah, a time traditionally associated with light, faith and resilience, making the loss felt by the Jewish community even more profound,” Albanese said.
“The Commonwealth and state government will also work closely with the Jewish community on arrangements for a National Day of Mourning to be held in the New Year.
Security officers sweep an area at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025, ahead of a ceremony to mark the National Day of Reflection for victims and survivors from the Bondi shooting. (AP)
“This will allow families the time and space to lay their loved ones to rest and to support those still recovering.”
There will also be a strong police presence at the beach to keep mourners safe.
NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon confirmed some police would be carrying long-arm guns.
“You will see more officers than usual,” he said.
“While our priority is keeping the community safe, it is equally about helping people feel safe as they come together to grieve.”
Campbell Parade will also be closed in both directions between Queen Elizabeth Drive and Ramsgate Avenue until about 10pm.
There will be multiple community vigils held across the country at 6.47pm today, including a candle-lighting ceremony at Parliament House in Canberra.
A total of 13 patients are still in hospital, including four in a critical but stable condition.
If you have been impacted by the terror attack in Bondi, there is support available.
To contact Lifeline Australia, call 13 11 14 or text 0477 13 11 14.
For people under 25 years old, you can contact Kids Helpline at 1800 55 1800.
Both of these are available on a 24/7 basis.
If you wish to donate blood, you can find your nearest donor centre here.
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