On the evening of Sunday 14 December 2025, a terrorist mass shooting occurred at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia.
The two men involved in the attack were armed with guns and targeted a peaceful Hanukkah celebration, an eight-day Jewish festival. While police and brave bystanders were able to stop the gunmen, the shooting resulted in the deaths of 15 people and the injuries of dozens more.
At the time of posting this article, the story is still developing. New information is reported daily by reputable news sources, including ABC News and SBS News. These media outlets are providing live updates on the incident.
Support services available to you
This was and continues to be a shocking moment in Australian history. The Jewish community, Bondi Beach residents and visitors, and the Australian public have been affected by this attack. This can also be a challenging time for international students as this event may heighten your concerns about personal safety, particularly in crowded or unfamiliar public spaces. However, there is support available for anyone who needs it, and you don’t have to go through it alone.
Universities and education providers
Support services may be available through your educational institution. For example, the University of Sydney provides professional counselling and allows students affected by the incident to apply for special consideration during examination periods. Similarly, the University of Technology Sydney is offering both students and members of the community free counselling. If you want to speak to someone, reach out to your education provider to see what they may offer you.
Charities and mental health organisations
There are a number of charities and mental health support groups who are encouraging people to seek help and provide helpful resources. The Australian charity Lifeline is providing a helpful wellbeing support guide specifically for the Bondi Beach attack. You can find information on how to speak to someone and coping strategies. The mental health organisation Beyond Blue has a support service where you can call, webchat or email someone for help.
NSW Health trained mental health clinicians are at Bondi and Coogee, or you can speak with health care professionals at the Intercontinental Coogee. There is also a dedicated Mental Health Line you can call at any time of the day.
Helpful phone numbers:
Mental Health Line: 1800 011 511
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 46 36
How you can help
There are a number of ways you can show your support and help the community during this difficult time.
One option is to donate blood. Donating is free to do, and anyone, including international students, can do it. There are some instances where you may not be able to donate (such as if you are under 18 years old, are taking some medications or if you are pregnant), so check your eligibility. Also, check whether nearby donation centres are accepting walk-ins. Otherwise, you can book an appointment online.
If you have the means, you can also donate financially. There are a number of charities and GoFundMe pages aimed at raising funds to support the heroes and victims of the attack. Always check the charity to ensure it is properly registered before donating.
Finally, you can always help your community through kindness and compassion. Offer a listening ear, check in on those around you who may be struggling and look out for one another. Reach out to friends and fellow students to let them know you are available to talk.
Staying updated and informed
While we still don’t understand the full story, it’s important not speculate or cause more fear. In the age of social media and AI, don’t believe everything you read or see online.
There may be false or misleading news stories and images circulating in the media. Graphic content shared on social media can also be distressing. The best way to stay accurately informed is through official government sources and trusted news outlets that provide verified, unbiased reporting, such as the ABC.
