Government names leaders to oversee recovery from Bondi terror attack

One month after the antisemitic terror attack at Bondi Beach, the NSW Government has appointed two senior figures to oversee the long-term recovery of the affected community.

Premier Chris Minns announced the appointment of Multicultural NSW chief executive Joseph La Posta and NSW Jewish Board of Deputies chief executive Michele Goldman as Co-Coordinators General of the state’s recovery response.

The pair will oversee a $60 million recovery fund established following the December 14 attack, which occurred during a Chanukah gathering and left 15 people dead and dozens injured. They will report directly to the Premier and are tasked with coordinating government agencies and removing barriers to support for victims, families and affected businesses.

More than 830 people have already sought assistance through the Bondi Community Hub. Service NSW has contacted more than 230 local businesses, while 350 applications for victim support have been lodged.

Premier Minns said the government’s commitment to the Bondi and Jewish communities would be ongoing.

“Our message to everyone affected by the horrific antisemitic terror attack at Bondi one month ago is clear: we are with you for the long haul.
“The appointment of these Coordinators General is a key way that we’ll ensure the support efforts for the Bondi community are organised, appropriate and effective.
“The Bondi Beach terrorist attack tore apart the Bondi and local Jewish community in a number of minutes on December 14, but we know the support effort will take months and the impacts will be felt for years to come, and our government will be there every step of the way.”

Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said the response required close coordination and a culturally informed approach.

Ms Saffin said the responsibility had been entrusted to experienced leaders who would work alongside the community through a prolonged recovery period.

Coordinator General Joseph La Posta said the task ahead would require cooperation across government and the community.

“We are honoured to step into these important roles at such a critical time.”
“Our focus will be on ensuring that government efforts are coordinated, support is delivered quickly and effectively, and every impacted individual as well as the broader Jewish and eastern suburbs community is heard and cared for.”

Coordinator General Michele Goldman said community voices would remain central to the recovery effort.

“We will be bringing together government, non-government, and community efforts, with community voices at the very heart of everything we do. This is a shared journey, and we’ll walk it together towards recovery.”
“I care deeply about serving the NSW Jewish community, and that commitment will guide our work in the weeks and months ahead.”

The appointments are for an initial three-month period, with the option of extension as recovery efforts continue.