Chief Minister Andrew Barr is urging Canberrans to consider donating blood to help those injured in the shooting. Photo: UC Media.
The ACT Government is working closely with the Federal and NSW governments to coordinate a response to Sunday’s deadly terror attack at Bondi Beach, as officials reassure Canberrans there is no heightened local threat.
ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr said the national cabinet would meet to consider a response this week and he intended to issue a statement afterwards to update the community.
“It will be a defining moment in our nation’s history much in the way that the Port Arthur massacre was. Our condolences and our thoughts are with those who have been impacted directly by this terrorist attack,” he said.
Mr Barr confirmed members of Canberra’s Jewish community had connections to those affected in Sydney.
“We know … that there are some connections, from people who’ve been impacted in Sydney with Canberra’s Jewish community, some people who were known to each other, so at this point it is a day of mourning and a day to acknowledge the significant impact that this terrorist event has had on the Jewish community.”
Mr Barr assured there was no heightened local threat in Canberra.
“We’ve not been provided with any information or intelligence that would suggest there is an elevated risk here in Canberra beyond that that ASIO have place[d] for the nation generally.”
The ACT Government has also backed a call from the NSW Government and Red Cross Australia for the public to donate blood, particularly O-negative, to help those injured.
“If people are looking for something they can do practically to help at this time, donating blood is a very good thing,” he said.
A message from Red Cross Australia about donating in the aftermath of the Bondi Beach shooting. Image: Screenshot.
The ACT Government is also commissioning an online condolence book for the community to express support for both the victims and the broader Jewish community in Canberra and across Australia. This should be available later today (Monday) on the ACT Government website.
While Mr Barr flagged discussions about tighter gun controls would be on the table, he said “today is about acknowledging the considerable loss”.
“Focus on national unity. And on a calm and measured response to what is a significant devastating event for Australia.”
ACT Police Minister Marisa Paterson echoed the sentiments of support and praised emergency services for their response.
“I would also like to thank the amazing response by NSW Police and ambulance services in particular,” she said.
“There has been an incredible response from emergency services in NSW, putting themselves above and beyond to support the community in this act of terrorism.”
ACT Chief Police Officer Scott Lee confirmed local security measures were being ramped up, including increased patrols around Jewish locations and events.
“We will continue to support this investigation … importantly, we look to ensure the safety of our Jewish community. We’re engaged with the community. We’ve increased patrols in certain locations of interest and that will be maintained,” he said.
He also highlighted Operation Avalite, the AFP-led initiative to collect intelligence on threats, violence and hatred targeting the Australian Jewish community.
Over time, the ACT Policing has received 61 reports under this operation, all assessed and actioned “where appropriate”.
“They’re issues that range from putting stickers on certain locations through to people being confronted or making really inappropriate statements or offensive statements to others that … puts their feeling of well-being at risk.”
Visit Red Cross Australia for more information about donating blood.
