I am deeply shocked and horrified by the mass shooting at Chanukah celebrations at Bondi Beach this evening.

This is an appalling and grotesque act of terrorist violence clearly directed at our Jewish community. It is also the worst-ever terrorist attack on Australian soil.

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My deepest thoughts are with those who have been killed or injured, and with their families and loved ones, and with the Jewish community more broadly.

This terrorist attack, on a Jewish community gathering, is an attack not only against one community, but against all Australians — and the values of pluralism, respect and tolerance that form the foundations of our nation.

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Many of us have been warning for months about the unchecked rise in anti-semitism in Australia, and the potential consequences of failing to combat it. Tragically, these consequences have become sickeningly manifest today.

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I have spoken to Rabbi Ulman, whose synagogue organises the celebration, and who lost family members in the attack, to pass on my deepest condolences and concerns. Like many in the area, some of the victims are known personally to me, and I grieve with their families.

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I thank and acknowledge the work of NSW Police, paramedics, emergency personnel and several courageous citizens in responding to this incident. I urge members of the public to follow police advice and provide whatever assistance they are able to investigations underway.

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Clearly, such a shocking terrorist attack and terrible loss of life must prompt a profound examination of national policy and direction.

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[ENDS]