Australia should be a safe harbour for people who have been targeted for their beliefs elsewhere. Yet racism and religious intolerance are a feature of Australian life. The shocking mass murder at Bondi targeted Jewish people. It was preceded by other appalling anti-Semitic and violent incidents, particularly in Melbourne and Sydney.

An experienced Canberra lawyer and advocate has been appointed as the territory’s next Victims of Crime Commissioner.

The Commission extends its profound sympathy to the families in mourning following Sunday’s violent attack at a Hannukah celebration in Bondi, and also extends its sympathies to the Jewish community.