The Australasian Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ASTSS) extends its deepest condolences to all those affected by the tragic shooting incident that unfolded at Bondi Beach on the evening of 14 December 2025. Violence like this has no place in our society and our hearts are with those who have lost loved ones.
We also wish to acknowledge and express our deepest gratitude to the first responders and members of the public whose actions helped protect and save lives. Our thoughts are also with those receiving medical care and we wish them the best possible recovery.
ASTSS acknowledges that events of this nature can have wide-reaching and deep impacts - not only for those directly involved, but for witnesses, first responders, support workers, families and friends, and entire communities.
Even for those not physically present, exposure to distressing images, videos, or news coverage may lead to a range of responses including changes in their sense of safety, heightened alertness, or intensified feelings of fear, anxiety, or vulnerability. We encourage all people affected to seek support and be gentle with themselves and others during this time.
Potential Impacts and Support Available
• It is normal to experience intense emotions such as shock, sadness, anger, numbness, or confusion in the aftermath of violent events.
• People may also experience physical reactions such as sleep disruption, bodily sensations, hypervigilance, or intrusive memories.
• For some, these symptoms will ease with time and support; for others, impacts may surface later and if these symptoms remain for more than a few weeks or interfere with daily life, additional support may be needed. Professional help is available.
If you are feeling overwhelmed or feel you could benefit from additional support, ASTSS encourages you to connect with:
• 24/7 Support Lines: including Lifeline (13 11 14), beyondblue (1300 22 4636), 13YARN, and the Mental Health Hotline (1800 011 511)
• Professional help can be sought via your local GP, local health district, or other healthcare professional
• Community, faith, or cultural support networks that can provide grounding and social connection.
ASTSS recognises that we are still in the immediate aftermath of the event at Bondi Beach, and that understanding the full impact will take time. We stand with the community in supporting care, connection and trauma-informed responses in the times ahead.
