‘Light will win’: Australia prepares for national day of mourning to honour Bondi victims
Australia will pause this Thursday, January 22, for a National Day of Mourning to honour the victims of the December 14 Bondi Beach terrorist attack.
Photo: Henry Benjamin/J-Wire
Under the theme ‘Light will win, a gathering of unity and remembrance’—an initiative spearheaded by the Bondi Chabad community—the day aims to provide a message of hope and resilience for a nation still reeling from the tragedy.
The commemoration will be marked by significant displays of state and national solidarity:
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Flags at Half-Mast: All Commonwealth and New South Wales Government buildings will lower their flags in a sombre tribute to those impacted.
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Illuminated Landmarks: National institutions in Canberra and across NSW are slated to be lit up on Thursday evening.
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15 Pillars of Light: At the request of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, a national installation titled ’15 Pillars of Light’ will be activated, serving as a visible beacon of mourning and national unity.
Beyond official ceremonies, the day encourages grassroots participation through “Mitzvahs for Bondi.” In the Jewish tradition, a Mitzvah is an act of kindness.
Australians of all backgrounds are being urged to check in on neighbours, volunteer, or support local businesses. Organisers have also suggested a simple, visual show of solidarity: placing a candle on a doorstep or a windowsill.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and NSW Premier Chris Minns said in a joint statement, “It is a time for Australians of all faiths and backgrounds to come together, share a meal and spend time with family and friends and to individually or together undertake Mitzvahs for Bondi.”
The day’s events will culminate at 7:01 PM AEDT, when all Australians are invited to observe a minute of silence. The gesture is intended to honour the 15 lives stolen on December 14 and to reaffirm a collective national determination for light to triumph over darkness.
