Unions stand in solidarity with Jewish Australians and express our sorrow and heartbreak at this horrific anti-Semitic attack that targeted people celebrating what should have been a joyous occasion on the first night of Hanukkah.

Our hearts go out to the families and friends of those who died last night, who are now grappling with unimaginable grief and trauma, as well as those who are still undergoing emergency treatment – including the two police officers who have been injured during this horrific event.

We acknowledge and honour the extraordinary courage of emergency services workers, including police, paramedics, and first responders, who rushed towards danger to save lives. The bravery of these workers, alongside the heroic actions of civilians, undoubtedly prevented further loss of life.

Australian Unions condemn anti-Semitism and all acts of violence and hatred that claim lives, harm others, and make people feel less safe.

Our condolences go out to the entire Jewish Australian community at this time of national tragedy. 

Violence and hatred have no place among us. It’s not who we are, and, in the reckoning, our common values will hold us up as we all come to terms with this targeted mass shooting.