Anthony Albanese and Sussan Ley release Christmas messages in wake of Bondi attack

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Sussan Ley have each released their Christmas messages to the country, both saying it was a time for Australians to "stand together" in the wake of the Bondi terror attack.

In a statement, Mr Albanese said this Christmas, Australians would "grieve those whose lives were stolen — and those whose lives were changed forever" in the attacks on December 14.

"After the terror inflicted on Jewish Australians celebrating Chanukah at Bondi Beach, we feel the weight of sorrow in our hearts."

But he said it was also a time to give thanks and celebrate the "extraordinary courage that shone so brightly through the darkness".

"It is in that spirit that Christmas brings Australians together to celebrate all that we have and all that we share," he said.

'A time of deep sorrow'

Ms Ley said this Christmas came "at a time of deep sorrow and reflection for our nation".

"Just days ago, families and friends gathered in Bondi to celebrate faith and community," she said.

"Instead, Australia witnessed an act of hatred and violence that took innocent lives from our Jewish community on the first night of Hanukkah.

"Moments like this test us … Our strength as a nation lies in our decency, our courage, and our willingness to stand together, especially when it is hard."

She said 2025 had been a difficult year for many Australians for other reasons, including the cost of living.

"If you are doing it tough, please know that you are not alone," Ms Ley said.

Both Mr Albanese and Ms Ley thanked those who will be working over Christmas, including emergency and defence personnel, as well as hospitality and health care workers.

"To each and every Australian, I wish you a Christmas of peace, safety and love — a Christmas where we stand together, united," Mr Albanese said.