Candlelight vigils held across Australia for Bondi Beach shooting victims
Australians gathered in candlelit silence on December 15, 2025 to remember those lost in the Bondi Beach shooting. The attack, which targeted a Jewish Hanukkah celebration, left 15 people dead, including children and Holocaust survivors. Communities nationwide observed a minute’s silence and lit candles in a show of unity and grief. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has promised new measures to address gun violence and hate crimes.
What we know
- The Bondi Beach shooting on December 8, 2025 was Australia’s deadliest mass shooting in nearly 30 years.
- Alleged gunmen Sajid Akram and his son Naveed targeted a Jewish festival, killing 15 people.
- Vigils and memorials were held nationwide, with candles lit in homes and public spaces.
- Authorities say the attack was inspired by the Islamic State group and was antisemitic in nature.
- The government has announced stricter gun laws and a national buyback program in response.
