National Day of Mourning Message from the Chancellor and Interim Vice-Chancellor

Today, Australia observes the National Day of Mourning to honour the 15 victims of the terrorist attack at Bondi Beach on 14 December 2025. The impact of this senseless and targeted act of violence continues to be felt across the nation. We remember those who lost their lives, those who were injured, and the families, friends and loved ones who continue to grieve, and we acknowledge the bravery and courage of the first responders.  

This was a profoundly dark day for Australia, and we reaffirm that ANU stands firmly against antisemitism, racism, hatred, discrimination and violence in all forms. No one should feel unsafe or be targeted for who they are – these acts are never acceptable and have no place in our society or on our campus. Our Jewish students, staff, alumni and friends are a valued and integral part of our community, and we stand with you in solidarity and support. 

Our strength lies in our shared values of respect, inclusion and empathy. In coming together during times of tragedy, we affirm those values and support one another so compassion and humanity can prevail.  

We acknowledge this will be a difficult day for many members of our community, and want to remind our staff and students that support is available and should be accessed if you or someone you know needs it.  

Student and staff support services at ANU

Students

• The ANU Health, Safety and Wellbeing teams offer free and confidential case management and counselling for students. To make an appointment you can phone 02 6125 2211 or visit level 3 of the Pauline Griffin Health and Wellbeing Centre or visit this link: Health, Safety and Wellbeing website.  

• The ANU Wellbeing and Support Line is a phone service for all students who are experiencing stress, emotional difficulties, and mental health concerns. The service can also provide debriefing support and assistance for student leaders. The ANU Wellbeing and Support Line is available 24/7 and can be reached by calling 1300 050 327 (voice) or 0488 884 170 (text).  

• The University’s Chaplaincy service provides a multifaith team of chaplains, including members of Christian, Muslim, Hindu, Jewish, Baha’i, Humanist and Buddhist traditions. The service can be contacted via chaplaincy@anu.edu.au or 0407 866 777. 

Staff

• The ANU Adviser to Staff provides free, confidential and professional counselling and advice to staff. Appointments can be made by phone 02 6125 3616 during business hours or email staff.adviser@anu.edu.au. 

• ANU offers a choice of counselling and advisory services for our staff members and their immediate families.  
  
  • Converge – 1300 687 327  
  • Assure – 1800 808 374    

* Please note all these services are only available to students and staff currently in Australia.

At 7.01pm (AEDT) this evening, a minute of silence will be observed nationally to honour the victims, and members of our community are invited to participate if they wish. 

As a mark of respect, flags across the University are flying at half-mast. 

We acknowledge this day and its significance for all our community – our staff, our students, alumni and friends. Please take care of yourselves and one another.  

The Hon Julie Bishop 
Chancellor 

Professor Rebekah Brown  
Interim Vice-Chancellor and President