The Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet has announced a national day of mourning on Thursday, 22 January 2026, to remember and honour the victims of the antisemitic terrorist attack in Bondi on 14 December 2025.
The theme the Chabad Community in Bondi has chosen is ‘Light will win, a gathering of unity and remembrance’.
The theme has been chosen to reinforce the message of hope and unity to inspire Australians.
At 7.01 pm AEDT on Thursday, all Australians are invited to observe a minute of silence to remember the 15 people who died as a result of the attack.
Flags will be flown at half-mast at all Commonwealth buildings around Australia and New South Wales Government buildings.
National institutions in Canberra and New South Wales will be illuminated on the evening of Thursday, 22 January.
The Federal Government is encouraging organisations across Australia to fly their flags at half-mast and light up buildings.
Following a request by the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, a national commemorative installation titled ’15 Pillars of Light’ will also be lit up on 22 January 2026
The pillars will be lit in locations across the country and serve as a visible symbol of mourning, remembrance, and national unity.
The Federal and NSW Governments would like Australians of all faiths and backgrounds to come together.
How To Observe the National Day of Mourning
There are several ways the public can observe the National Day of Mourning.
- You can leave a candle on your doorstep or window as a symbol of remembrance, mourning and solidarity with the Jewish community
- You are invited to observe one minute of silence to honour those impacted by the Bondi Beach terrorist attack at 7.01pm AEDT.
- Australians are being encouraged to share a meal and spend time with family and friends, and to undertake Mitzvahs for Bondi individually or together. In Jewish tradition, a Mitzvah is an act of kindness, compassion, and a moral responsibility. Practical action to help others, through everyday acts of kindness. 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.
- An invitation-only memorial service organised by Chabad of Bondi will be live streamed from Bondi and can be watched here.
- Messages of support can also be shared via the official online condolence book.
Further Information on the National Day of Mourning
NSW Government – One Mitzvah for Bondi
Federal Government – Fifteen suggested Mitzvah for the 15 people lost in the Bondi attack
Cover Photo Image: Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
