In a powerful display of national solidarity, thousands of Australians are preparing to perform acts of kindness this Thursday as part of a national day of mourning for the victims of last month's Bondi terror attack. This solemn occasion sees the Jewish tradition of mitzvah – meaning charitable acts – embraced across diverse faiths and backgrounds, transforming grief into collective action.
A Nation Embraces Mitzvahs in Tribute
The concept of mitzvah, a core value in Judaism that has come to represent any charitable deed, is being widely adopted as Australians seek meaningful ways to honour the fifteen lives lost during the tragic attack at Bondi. From preparing meals for vulnerable communities to simple neighbourly gestures, these acts of kindness are creating ripples of compassion throughout the country.
Community Leaders Champion the Movement
Carole Schlessinger, CEO and co-founder of the charity Kids Giving Back, has been running a dedicated One Mitzvah for Bondi program weekly since the attack. Her organisation has opened its doors to hundreds of families preparing meals for those in need, with two special events planned for Thursday's national day of mourning.
"We truly believe that enabling kids and families to do these mitzvahs, these acts of kindness, is deeply empowering," Schlessinger explained. "It gives young people a sense of agency, purpose and hope, especially during challenging times like these."
Daniel Aghion, President of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, expressed profound pride in how Australians have embraced this Jewish tradition. "The overwhelming support for mitzvahs after the Bondi attack has made me proud of my Jewish faith and proud of Australians," he stated. "One of the beautiful things that can emerge from such a terrible event is a way to bring Australians together through simple acts of kindness."
Official Memorial Service at Sydney Opera House
Alongside the nationwide mitzvah initiative, mourners will gather at the Sydney Opera House on Thursday evening for an official national memorial service. Organised by the Chabad of Bondi with support from the federal government, community partners and faith leaders, the event carries the poignant theme: "Light Will Win, a Gathering of Unity and Remembrance."
Distinguished Speakers and Guests
The invitation-only ceremony will feature addresses from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Opposition Leader Sussan Ley, and New South Wales Premier Chris Minns. The guest list includes survivors of the terror attack, families of victims, first responders, community leaders, and government representatives – creating a comprehensive gathering of those most affected by the tragedy.
In alignment with the event's theme, the Sydney Opera House will be bathed in light alongside other significant national buildings. Guests will begin arriving from 5:30pm, with official proceedings running from 7pm AEDT until approximately 9pm.
Ceremonial Elements and Public Participation
The memorial service will commence with a national minute of silence, followed by prayers from Rabbi Pinchus Feldman. The Choir of The Great Synagogue will perform the national anthem, while fifteen candles will be lit by families and representatives of the deceased – one for each life lost.
Additional elements will include tribute videos, musical performances, official addresses, and memorial readings. For those unable to attend in person, the entire proceedings will be livestreamed on the Chabad of Bondi's YouTube channel.
Additional Commemorations Across Australia
With the Sydney Opera House event at capacity, an additional short name reading and candle lighting service will take place simultaneously at Bondi Pavilion from 5:30pm until 6pm. Meanwhile in Victoria, multifaith leaders will gather for a public vigil at St Paul's Anglican Cathedral in Melbourne at 11:15am on Thursday, which will also be livestreamed online.
Victoria's Premier Jacinta Allan described the vigil as "a moment to stand with the Jewish community and reaffirm who we are as Australians." Michele Goldman, CEO of the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies, encouraged every Australian to undertake a mitzvah, whether through checking on neighbours, volunteering, or supporting local businesses.
This marks Australia's first national day of mourning since the death of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022, representing a significant moment of collective reflection and unity. Through both private acts of kindness and public ceremonies, Australians are creating a powerful response to tragedy that emphasises compassion, inclusion, and the enduring strength of community bonds.
