Bondi beach attack: grief, anger and calls for action as antisemitism comes under scrutiny

Melbourne, 17 December 2025: Bondi Beach remains gripped by grief as tearful farewells continue for victims of Sunday’s terrorist attack, while police prepare to formally interview the alleged gunman. Large crowds gathered this morning at a synagogue in Bondi for the funeral of Rabbi Eli Schlanger, a respected community leader who was killed in the attack.

Rabbi Schlanger had led the Chabad mission in Bondi for 18 years and was widely known for his service to the local Jewish community. He is survived by his wife and young children, including a baby just two months old. Mourners described the loss as devastating, with scenes of deep sorrow unfolding as the community came together to honour his life and legacy.

Authorities have warned that details surrounding the attack may be distressing, as further information continues to emerge. Investigations are ongoing, with police preparing to question the suspect as they piece together the events that led to the deadly incident.

Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles has stated that antisemitism lies at the core of the Bondi Beach attack. Speaking to Channel Seven, he acknowledged longstanding concerns within the Jewish community, saying many Jewish Australians have not felt safe “for a long time”. He conceded that the federal government faces criticism over its response to rising antisemitism, particularly since the October 7 attacks in Israel.

Marles said tackling antisemitism requires sustained and collective effort, describing it as a long-term challenge rather than a short-term fix. While pointing to measures such as the commissioning of the Segal report, he admitted that more must be done and stressed the need to unite Australians in confronting hatred and extremism.

Meanwhile, emotions ran high at Bondi Beach as former federal treasurer Josh Frydenberg addressed the crowd. Visibly shaken, he expressed anger and grief, accusing governments of failing to protect Jewish Australians. Frydenberg said the Jewish community felt abandoned and warned that hate and antisemitism had been allowed to grow unchecked. He called on national leaders to accept responsibility and demonstrate stronger leadership in confronting extremism and safeguarding social cohesion.

As the nation mourns, the Bondi Beach tragedy has intensified calls for accountability and renewed action against racism and antisemitism, with many insisting that remembrance must be matched by meaningful change.