The Alannah & Madeline Foundation is devastated by the horrific act of violence at Bondi Beach last night. Our hearts go out to the victims, their families and the Jewish community. We extend our deepest condolences to them and all those affected by this terrible attack, at a place Australians know and love so dearly.
While the details of this tragedy are still being investigated by authorities, it is a stark reminder of the urgent need for responsible gun safety measures. As an organisation dedicated to keeping children safe from violence, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to advocating for a nation where no family has to endure this unimaginable pain.
Founder of the Alannah & Madeline Foundation, Walter Mikac AM said:
"Violence has no place in our society. Our hearts are with the Jewish community at this devasting time.
"After Port Arthur, Australia made a collective commitment to put community safety first, and that commitment remains as important today as ever.
"This is a horrific reminder of the need to stay vigilant against hate and violence, and of the importance of ensuring our gun laws continue to protect the safety of all Australians."
Australian Gun Safety Alliance convenor and Alannah & Madeline Foundation advocacy advisor Stephen Bendle welcomed comments from NSW Premier Chris Minns suggesting that stronger – not weaker – firearm safety reforms would follow.
"The Alannah & Madeline Foundation welcomes and will support any progress made by governments at all levels to ensure Australia's gun laws remain safe, responsible and strong. We will continue to build a future where children – and all people – can live safe from gun-related violence."
Daunting and complex events like this can be deeply distressing for children and young people. The Foundation encourages parents, carers and educators to support children through these moments by creating a safe space, listening to their concerns, reassuring them of their safety and helping them make sense of what they may be seeing or hearing in an age-appropriate way.
About us:
About the Alannah & Madeline Foundation The Alannah & Madeline Foundation was founded 28 years ago by Walter Mikac AM, and a small group of volunteers in memory of Walter's young daughters Alannah and Madeline, aged just six and three, who tragically lost their lives along with their mother and 32 others at Port Arthur in Tasmania on 28 April 1996. The Foundation was established with the belief that "all children and young people should be able to live a happy and safe life, free from violence and trauma." Our mission continues today through our Care, Prevention and Advocacy programs – we fight for their right to be safe, so their future is strong. www.alannahandmadeline.org.au
About the Australian Gun Safety Alliance The Australian Gun Safety Alliance is a broad coalition of voices representing the interests of the community to ensure we remain vigilant on gun safety. www.gunsafetyalliance.org.au
