By Henry Ea -
The Law Society of New South Wales has issued a strong condemnation of the terror attack at Bondi Beach, denouncing the "antisemitic and hate-fuelled actions" that shattered a Hanukkah celebration and claimed multiple lives.
In a statement, Law Society President Jennifer Ball expressed the profession’s profound shock and solidarity. “I share the shock and distress of the community at yesterday’s violence at Bondi Beach… On behalf of the solicitor profession of NSW, I offer deepest condolences to families and loved ones of those who were killed during this horrific event, and hope for the best recovery possible for those who were injured.”
The attack, which occurred during the Jewish “triumph of light over darkness” festival, was described by Ball as having “shattered the peace” of the cherished location.
“Members of our state’s solicitor profession are drawn from every background in our community, including the Jewish community. We join all Australians in standing with them,” Ball said.
In a direct response to the incident, the Law Society has announced the expansion of its mental health support services. The Solicitor Outreach Service (SOS), which offers free 24/7 crisis counselling and individual therapy sessions, will now be extended beyond NSW solicitors to include the broader legal community, including legal professionals, support workers, and family members affected by the incident.
These confidential sessions are provided by independent, registered psychologists.
Acknowledging the sensitive legal proceedings ahead, Ball concluded by deferring to authorities. “As legal processes will follow, further comment would be inappropriate at this time,” she noted, as police and security authorities continue their counter-terrorism investigation.
Header image: DEAN LEWINS/AAP Image
