Sydney Unites for New Year's Eve Celebration

Sydney New Year's Eve will provide moments of unity and reflection as the city comes together following the tragic terror attack in Bondi. Shortly before 9pm, the Sydney Harbour Bridge pylons will shine white with the image of a dove and a single word: Peace. At 11pm, the Sydney Harbour Bridge will be illuminated white as Sydney comes together for a minute of silence for the victims of the terror attack, the word 'Peace' again shining brightly. People around the harbour are encouraged to switch on their phone torches and shine a light in solidarity. The ABC broadcast will also observe the minute's silence. Sydney New Year's Eve is one of Australia's largest events, with more than 1.1 million people gathering around the shores of Sydney Harbour, and hundreds of millions more watching around Australia and the world. Lord Mayor Clover Moore said this year's event would demonstrate to the world that Sydney stands together as one community. "While we are still reeling from the recent tragic events in Bondi, New Year's Eve provides an opportunity to gather as a community, to pause and reflect, and to look with hope for a safer and more peaceful 2026," Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore AO said. "Sydney New Year's Eve is more than fireworks. It's a reflection of who we are – a vibrant, diverse and inclusive city. Those values are more important than ever. "We will begin the event by lighting the Bridge pylons with the word Peace, and at 11pm I invite everyone to pause and shine a torch light, to show the Jewish community that we stand with them, and that we reject violence, fear and antisemitism. "These moments will provide an opportunity for people to show respect, to reflect on the atrocity and to say we will not let this hateful act of terror divide us." The New Year's Eve program will continue as planned with incredible fireworks, music and lights for the Calling Country show, and the midnight spectacular. The Sydney Harbour Bridge will also be illuminated blue at 10pm in recognition of the event's official charity partner, Beyond Blue, who provides free mental health support around the clock. "This New Year's Eve offers a chance for people to pause, acknowledge the pain, remember those affected and extend care and support to one another and especially the Jewish community," Beyond Blue CEO Georgie Harman AO said. "When something like this happens, it doesn't just impact the people who were there – it ripples through families, communities and across the country, and it's normal to feel unsettled or distressed. "Staying connected is an important step towards healing after a traumatic event and social support is one of the most meaningful things we can offer and receive right now. You don't need to go through anything alone and it's never too early to reach out to us if you're struggling." The safety of the public is the highest priority and the City of Sydney has been working with the NSW Police Force and state government for 18 months on security arrangements. Like every year, people heading to the foreshore should expect to see a significant police presence, security throughout the city and at vantage points, and more CCTV cameras monitoring crowds. Beyond Blue's free support service is available anytime, any day on 1300 22 4636 and at beyondblue.org.au/get-support