NSW government announces details of recovery package six months after Bondi terror attack
The New South Wales Government has unveiled an $8.3 million recovery and resilience package for the Jewish and Bondi communities, exactly six months after the deadly Bondi Beach terror attack that killed 15 people and stands as Australia’s worst terrorist incident.
Announced on Sunday, the funding supports long-term healing, bolsters community resilience, tackles antisemitism and funds a permanent memorial for the victims.
Chris Minns speaks to Rabbi Ullman Chabad of Bondi
Premier Chris Minns reaffirmed the government’s ongoing commitment to those impacted.
“We said from the moment this attack took place that we would walk with the community every step of the way,” he said. “We know that the community needs support, and we’re continuing to provide that.”
The package includes $2 million for Waverley Council to support the installation of a permanent memorial honouring those killed and acknowledging the community’s response in the days after the attack.
A further $2 million will support long-term wellbeing and recovery through practical local initiatives, including community forums, school-based support, trauma-informed programs and grants.
The New South Wales Jewish Board of Deputies will receive a $1 million grant to continue support services for community members, while an additional $200,000 will fund Multicultural NSW to continue delivering community support grants in partnership with the Board.
The Community Security Group will receive $500,000 to continue the work of its 24-hour Security Operations Centre for the NSW Jewish community for the next six months.
The largest share, $2.6 million, will go to the Sydney Jewish Museum for redevelopment works, including new exhibitions on contemporary antisemitism to build awareness, educate visitors and support broader social cohesion.
Minns said the investment showed the government’s resolve to fight antisemitism while supporting recovery.
“The scourge of antisemitism in our community must be eradicated so we’re not just investing in community safety support but also in programs that tackle antisemitism,” he said.
He said well-resourced and coordinated systems of support would continue over the long term, alongside initiatives to build awareness, support the community and create a fitting memorial.
Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper said the effects of the attack had not ended on the day it occurred.
“We know recovery is a long journey, and our Jewish community deserves every measure of compassion and support as they continue to heal. We stand firmly with them,” he said.
“We know the impact of this attack didn’t end on that day. The effects are ongoing, and so is our commitment to support the local community.”
Kamper said the package would also lay the groundwork for greater social cohesion and long-term prevention.
Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said trauma and grief did not follow a schedule.
“We recognise that there is no timeframe on grief and trauma,” she said.
“These resources are about making sure the Jewish and Bondi communities have support that isn’t just temporary. As they continue to navigate the aftermath of a horrendous and violent act, we want them to know we are still here with them.”
Waverley Mayor Will Nemesh called the past six months one of the council area’s toughest periods.
Waverley Mayor Will Nemesh
“The past six months have presented one of, if not the most significant challenges Waverley has ever faced, and the impact of the terror attack continues to be deeply felt,” he said.
“Our community is resilient and tight-knit, but the recovery from this unspeakable tragedy will understandably take time.”
NSW Jewish Board of Deputies chief executive Michele Goldman welcomed the package, saying it recognised that recovery would continue well beyond the immediate aftermath.
“This support recognises that recovery is not linear and that the impact is felt long after the headlines fade,” she said.
“For the Jewish and broader Bondi community, this funding provides not just practical assistance, but reassurance that we are not facing this alone.”
Goldman said the funding would allow the Board to continue delivering culturally appropriate support, strengthen community resilience and walk alongside those affected through their grief and recovery.
The latest funding builds on earlier support from the NSW and Australian governments, including $2.9 million in Bondi Beach Recovery payments for victims and families to assist with immediate health, safety, security and other needs.
A community support hub was established at Bondi Pavilion, providing practical advice, mental health and wellbeing services through Lifeline, Legal Aid NSW and Jewish Care.
The governments have also committed $3.6 million in case coordination support for affected individuals and families through place-based Resilience Support Services delivered by Jewish Care, Jewish Family Centre, Jewish House, The Junction Neighbourhood Centre and 54 Reasons Youth Service.
Previous funding included $1 million in community mental health and wellbeing support delivered by the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies, $1 million in crisis intervention services through Jewish House and $7.3 million in financial assistance for small businesses affected by disruption after the attack.
Another $1.8 million funded Community Resilience and Engagement Coordinators for seven organisations: Multicultural NSW, the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies, Surf Life Saving NSW, Waverley Council, Kesser Torah College, National Council of Jewish Women and Chabad of Bondi.
The government has also funded a $2 million grants program for community organisations, delivered through Multicultural NSW and the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies, as well as $1 million in Legal Aid NSW assistance for compensation, grants, workers compensation, tenancy matters and document replacement.
Communities in Sydney are preparing memorial and healing events in Bondi to mark the six-month anniversary.
