Support is available following the Bondi Beach terror attack
Warning: This page discusses the Bondi Beach terror attack. Support services are available.
Our hearts break for the innocent lives taken at Bondi Beach on the 14 December.
We share our deepest sorrow and condolences with the families and friends who’ve lost loved ones, the dozens of victims who remain in hospital, the terrified witnesses, brave first responders, and the entire Australian community impacted by this horrific terror attack.
We especially stand with the Jewish community who are currently grieving this unimaginable loss and facing fear, trauma, and terror. This targeted attack occurred during what was a celebration of warmth and happiness on the first night of Hanukkah.
Nurses, paramedics, doctors, and police have been at the core of responding to this devastating situation, displaying extraordinary courage to prevent further loss of life.
Many of our members have been working tirelessly in emergency departments, surgical rooms, intensive care units, and key speciality areas providing life-saving care, assisting patients and the community with their initial trauma response, holding the hands of victims and families, supporting their colleagues, and still finding the strength to care for every other patient who needs them.
We know the challenges you face, but your skills and experience are valued by the community as we receive messages of thanks for the work you do. We are honoured to stand with such dedicated and compassionate professions.
We also recognise the many brave bystanders who ran towards the danger, acting to protect others and render assistance. These acts demonstrate the values we celebrate as nurses, midwives, and carers; empathy, compassion and care which knows no borders or religion. At this time, we must come together in solidarity, love and support for each other – all members and all communities.
We stand against bigotry and hatred, we condemn antisemitism in all its forms, and we stand for peace and unity.
Reactions can vary, but support is available today, this week, and into the future. If you are a nurse or midwife and would like to speak to someone, you can contact: Nurse and Midwife Support or Nurse Midwife Health Program Australia.
Remember we are here for you, and we encourage you to reach out as you process these events.
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Association members can also access free Vicarious Trauma Education through the iLearn platform on Member Central. Just log in to Member Central to access the course.
Vicarious Trauma Education provides the knowledge, skills and tools to communicate effectively and sensitively with someone who has experienced trauma, and deliver service in a way that is trauma-informed, minimises the risk of re-traumatisation, and support recovery and wellbeing.
The modules also provides people with the knowledge, skills, and tools to look after their personal mental health and wellbeing, specifically when dealing with people who have experienced trauma, or with material of a highly sensitive or emotional nature. Member’s can access the course here.
