Sydney, Australia — Australian authorities are investigating reports of a violent incident near Bondi Beach on Sunday evening, December 14, 2025, after gunfire was reported in the vicinity of a public gathering associated with a Hanukkah celebration. Police have confirmed multiple casualties and described the incident as being treated under counterterrorism protocols, citing concerns about a potential hate-motivated attack.
According to early reporting from Reuters, Associated Press, and BBC News, the incident occurred near Bondi Park and Campbell Parade, an area that was hosting a community event commonly referred to as “Chanukah by the Sea.” The gathering was organized by local Jewish community groups and drew families, tourists, and beachgoers.
What Is Known So Far
Emergency services were dispatched shortly before 7:00 p.m. AEDT following reports of gunshots. New South Wales Police established a security perimeter around the beach and adjacent streets while tactical units conducted operations in the area.
Authorities have confirmed that:
- Multiple people were killed and injured, though official casualty figures have not yet been finalized
- At least one suspect was shot by police during the response
- A second individual was taken into custody
- Counterterrorism investigators are involved due to the location, timing, and nature of the attack
Police have not yet released the identities of victims or suspects, citing ongoing investigations and family notifications.
Witness Accounts and Police Response
Eyewitnesses interviewed by BBC News and ABC Australia described scenes of panic as people fled the beachfront promenade seeking shelter. Video footage circulating online shows a heavy police presence and crowds being evacuated from the area.
NSW Police Commissioner officials stated that members of the public assisted one another during the chaos, and praised the rapid response of first responders in preventing further harm.
Bomb disposal units were deployed as a precaution after police examined a vehicle of interest near the scene. Authorities have not confirmed whether any explosive devices were viable.
Government and Community Reaction
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese issued a statement condemning the violence, saying:
“Any attack targeting a community on the basis of faith or identity is an attack on Australia itself.”
NSW Premier Chris Minns echoed the sentiment, calling the incident “deeply disturbing” and urging Australians to reject hatred and extremism.
Jewish community organizations across Sydney announced the cancellation of remaining Hanukkah events out of caution, while interfaith leaders called for calm and solidarity.
Context: Security and Hate Crime Concerns
The incident comes amid heightened global concern over antisemitic incidents, which Australian authorities have acknowledged have increased since late 2023. Federal agencies, including ASIO, have repeatedly warned about the risk of lone-actor violence inspired by extremist ideologies.
Officials stressed that it is too early to determine motive, and cautioned against speculation until the investigation concludes.
Ongoing Investigation
As of Monday morning, December 15, police confirmed that:
- The investigation remains active
- Additional arrests have not been ruled out
- A public briefing will be held once verified information can be released
Bondi Beach remains partially closed as forensic teams continue their work.
Sources
- Reuters
- Associated Press (AP)
- BBC News
- ABC News Australia
This article will be updated as authorities release confirmed information.
