The federal government is investing $42.6 million in mental health services to support Australians affected by the recent terror attack in Bondi, with a focus on Jewish Australians, local residents, and first responders.
Immediate and Local Support
Federal Health Minister Mark Butler told ABC News the funding will provide quick access to support through hotlines, online services, and in-person care in the Bondi area. Both informal and clinical mental health services will be available to help those affected.
“This is a time to reassure Australians, especially Jewish Australians, that we are doing everything possible to protect them and keep them safe,” Butler said. He added that the trauma from Sunday’s attack has spread far beyond Bondi, with distress increasing across Sydney and beyond.
Funding Breakdown
Over $14 million will go directly to Jewish community organizations in Australia.
Around $4.5 million will be provided to health networks in Sydney and other areas with significant Jewish populations.
The government also plans to open a temporary Medicare Mental Health Centre in Bondi by early 2026, providing specialized trauma support.
NSW Health Expands Mental Health Services
In response to the Bondi attack, NSW Health is boosting support across Sydney. Mobile mental health clinicians will be stationed at Bondi and Coogee Beaches, available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. over the coming weeks. Clinicians will wear high-visibility NSW Health vests and can connect people with additional services as needed.
NSW Health Chief Psychiatrist Dr. Murray Wright emphasized the importance of mental self-care after a traumatic event:
“Everyone processes trauma differently. A range of feelings is normal, and it’s important to talk about what you’re going through.”
Support will also be coordinated with NGOs, religious leaders, and the Jewish House to ensure culturally appropriate care. At Coogee, disaster welfare officers, chaplains, and Red Cross staff trained in psychological first aid will provide additional assistance.
Government Officials Encourage Seeking Help
Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson said, “Whether you were there, know someone who was, or feel distressed by what you’ve seen online, it’s okay not to be okay.”
Minister for Health Ryan Park added, “We’ve increased resources for existing mental health services so that anyone who needs help can access it freely.”
Boosted Public Services Include
Safe Haven at Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick – extended hours from 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Dec 15–19.
Headspace Bondi Junction – open 9 a.m.–6 p.m. Mon–Thu, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Fri.
NSW public hospitals, including Prince of Wales Hospital and St Vincent’s Hospital, will continue to provide 24/7 mental health support.
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