AIDR's statement of support following the Bondi Beach attacks
We condemn this senseless act of violence and express our deepest condolences to people killed, injured, and feared for their lives, their families, the Jewish community of Australia, the Bondi community, and everyone affected. We share your grief and stand in solidarity with you as you work through this trauma. Collective trauma events like this tear at the fabric of our society. The ripples will be felt across all faiths and communities, here in Australia, and worldwide.
We commend the work of community first responders, emergency services and those who will continue to work with affected individuals, families and communities through the healing and recovery process.
Violence directed at anyone because of their faith, race, culture, or identity has no place in our society.
Further information and support
For those looking for information and support during this distressing time, AIDR recommends the following guidance and services:
- Australian Red Cross After a distressing event has happened | Australian Red Cross
- Phoenix Australia Helping-a-friend-or-family-member-after-a-traumatic-event.pdf
- Lifeline on 13 11 14 or chat online here
- Griefline on 1300 845 745 or visit Online Forum | 24/7 Online Grief Discussion Groups | Griefline
- Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 or chat online here
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander crisis support line 13YARN on 13 92 76
- ReachOut at au.reachout.com
- Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800 or chat online here
- Headspace on 1800 650 890
- Emerging Minds: Talking to children about violent events
If you are able and eligible to do so, Lifeblood has called for blood donations. You can find a donor centre near you via this link: Find a donor centre near you | Australian Red Cross Lifeblood.
For agencies working to support communities, in addition to sharing the above resources, these may be useful in your work:
- AIDR’s Community Recovery Handbook
- Australian Red Cross’ Best Practice Guidelines: Supporting Communities Before, During and After Collective Trauma Events and Psychological guidelines for temporary memorial management
- University of Melbourne’s Disinformation in the City Playbook