22 January 2026
A note from CEO and Commissioner Fiona McLeay as we mourn, remember and unite following the Bondi Beach terrorist attack.
The Australian Government has declared Thursday 22 January a National Day of Mourning, honouring the victims and all those impacted by the Bondi Beach terrorist attack.
The VLSB+C stands in unity with the Jewish community of Australia as we mourn, remember and come together to reject hate, division and violence, and commit to a safer, more unified future for all Australians.
With great resilience and generosity, the Chabad Community in Bondi have chosen the theme: ‘Light will win, a gathering of unity and remembrance’.
I encourage the Victorian legal profession to join in the National Day of Mourning. There are many ways you can do so on the official website including:
- observe one minute of silence on Thursday 22 January at 19:01 AEDT
- watch the live stream of the memorial on Thursday 22 January at 19:01 AEDT
- share a meal and spend time with family and friends of all faiths and backgrounds
- leave a candle on a doorstep or window as a symbol of remembrance, mourning and solidarity with the Jewish community
- undertake one of more of the 15 suggested Mitzvah for Bondi.
In December, the VLSB+C, jointly with the Law Institute of Victoria, Victorian Bar and Legal Practitioners Liability Committee released a statement on behalf of the legal profession in Victoria.
Among the sentiments in that statement, we reaffirmed our commitment to the rule of law, which underpins the safety and security of all in Australia.
So, as legal professionals, I hope you will join me in pausing on this important day to recommit to the fairness and equality that defines the Australian way of life.
Fiona McLeay
Victorian Legal Services Board CEO and Commissioner