UPDATE: In a swift response to the recent terror attack at Bondi Beach, the federal and NSW governments have just announced a comprehensive $20 million support package aimed at assisting victims, their families, and local businesses impacted by this devastating event.
This urgent initiative, jointly funded by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and NSW Premier Chris Minns, is part of the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements activated following Sunday’s attack. The tragedy has left the Jewish community and the entire nation in shock, prompting immediate action to provide necessary support.
Prime Minister Albanese emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to aid those affected, stating,
“The antisemitic terrorism incident in Bondi has shaken the Jewish community, and indeed the whole nation who have been devastated by what is an unprecedented attack on the Australian way of life.”
He reaffirmed that the government will take every measure to ensure the safety and well-being of all Australians.
Premier Minns echoed this sentiment, highlighting the unimaginable pain caused to victims and their families. He stated,
“Our responsibility is to stand alongside people in their grief, provide real support, and help the community recover, not just in the days ahead, but for as long as it takes.”
The new support package is designed to provide dignity, compassion, and practical help for those affected.
Key elements of the package include:
– $2 million allocated for Jewish community organizations to support victims’ families, including $1 million for Jewish House to establish a Victim Support Fund.
– Enhanced financial support for injured victims and their families, covering funeral costs and support for repatriation of remains.
– $1 million earmarked for local Jewish organizations to provide community mental health support.
– $3.6 million designated for six recovery officers to coordinate case management and outreach for impacted individuals and families.
– Grants of up to $25,000 for small businesses located in the immediate vicinity of the attack.
Registrations for business support will commence on Friday, with grants expected to be processed by early next week. Additionally, the package includes $1.5 million for enhanced security at Jewish community sites and $1 million for Waverley Council to assist with cleanup efforts and community cohesion events.
To aid recovery, a community hub will open at North Bondi RSL from Friday to Tuesday, December 23, operating daily from 10 AM to 4 PM. This hub will provide access to various support services, including the NSW Reconstruction Authority, NSW Health, and Legal Aid.
Mental health support has also been prioritized, with clinicians actively working in Bondi and Coogee. Mobile mental health professionals will be present from 8 AM to 8 PM for the next several weeks, ensuring immediate access to care for those in need. NSW Health has expanded its 24-hour Mental Health Line to ensure comprehensive support.
NSW Treasurer Daniel Mookhey declared that the Jewish community and residents of Bondi Beach will not be intimidated by the attack. He stated,
“This assistance package is recognition that our community is at its strongest when it pulls together – and that when it does so, terror can never prevail.”
As the community begins to heal, the government is committed to ensuring that Bondi Beach remains a cherished landmark of joy and freedom for all Australians.
Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops and support measures unfold.
