Australia today marks a national day of mourning following the devastation of the December 14 Bondi Beach terror attack, which claimed the lives of 15 innocent people.
National flags will be flown at half-mast at all federal and New South Wales government buildings in tribute to the victims.
Other organisations and jurisdictions that display the flag have been invited to participate according to protocol.
The day’s theme – selected by the Chabad Community in Bondi, whose Hanukkah event was targeted in the attack – is “Light will win, a gathering of unity and remembrance”.
National institutions across Canberra and New South Wales will be illuminated this evening as a symbol of light.
A commemorative installation, 15 Pillars of Light, will also be displayed in Canberra and at locations around the country.
“The pillars will be lit up in locations around the country and will serve as a visible symbol of mourning, remembrance, and national unity,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said.
All Australians are encouraged to observe a minute’s silence at 7.01pm and to place a lit candle in their window or on their doorstep as a gesture of solidarity with the Jewish community.
Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek told Today that people were also being encouraged to perform a “mitzvah” – an “act of goodness and kindness” – for fellow Australians.
“These acts can be as simple as checking in on a neighbour, volunteering time, offering support to local businesses, or donating to those in need,” Albanese said earlier this week.
An invitation-only memorial event organised by Chabad of Bondi will be live-streamed from 7pm AEDT on the organisation’s YouTube channel.
Members of the Jewish community will also gather at the Sydney Opera House, which will be illuminated in white as a gesture of solidarity and mourning.
“I’m very thankful the NSW Government for giving us this opportunity to reclaim it, not just for us as a Jewish community, but obviously for the whole Australia and globally,” Rabbi Mendy Ulman said.
Images: 9News
