Standing together as the year ends

Newsletter/Media Release from Federal member for Wentworth Allegra Spender

Posted 24 December,2025

As we come to the end of the year, what should be a time of celebration has instead been marred by grief. Fifteen innocent lives were lost in last Sunday’s antisemitic terrorist attack. Their families have been shattered, and many more deeply affected. Our community is hurting.

I send all my love to the victims’ families, particularly during this season as they navigate such recent loss. May the memory of their loved ones be a blessing.

Over the past week, we have heard from the victims’ families that they want their loved ones to be honoured by spreading light, love and kindness in our world. The actions of our community have already shown that light will always shine through darkness.

I know we will make it through this. But the road ahead – to building a country where every community, including our Jewish community feels safe – will not be easy.

Since Sunday, I have spent time at memorials in Bondi and around the community, mourning and listening to what action you want to see. I want to extend my heartfelt thank you to everyone who has spoken with me or written to my office during this difficult period. I know that none of this is easy, and many in our community are hurt, angry and let down. But your voices have and will continue to shape what I advocate for as your federal representative.

In the weeks ahead, I will be focused on progress across five key priorities: a Commonwealth Royal Commission, stronger hate speech laws, a Minister for Social Cohesion, clear public accountability on actions to fight antisemitism and violent extremism, and proper security support for the Jewish community. You can read more about my priorities by clicking here.

However, laws and policing alone are not enough. What happened on Sunday night was driven by extremists who sought to terrorise and divide. We must say very clearly as a country that our Jewish community, and every community, deserves to feel safe here. No one should feel that living openly as themselves must come with security fences, guards, and constant vigilance.

But just stating our unity isn’t enough. Australia is a diverse, pluralist country and we will always hold different views. To hold our social fabric together we must strengthen our ability to disagree well – especially on the hard topics.

Extremism thrives on the fringes, so the more we can choose to engage with each other, the less of an opportunity we give for it to take hold. Of course this will be difficult – remembering to choose care, respect and a commitment to another’s humanity when you hold vehemently different views can be hard. But facing this discomfort is the best way we can honour the lives of those who on Sunday night, when faced with danger, chose courage over retreat.

A completed puzzle and a stand off between goanna vs reindeer

I know this holiday season will be different and it can feel wrong sometimes to celebrate at times like this. But we must remember to find the joy – and there is so much of it in our community. Personally, I’m taking comfort in simple things: daily swims, finishing puzzles, and baking with my kids. I hope you too can find joy over the coming weeks.

Please remember that if you or someone you love needs support during this period, help is available. No one should have to face this alone. You can find a full list of support services on our website via the link below.

Click here

Community support during the festive season

Not everyone has friends or family to connect with over the holiday period. There are many incredible organisations who are working tirelessly to ensure everyone is cared for – Wayside Chapel is holding its Annual Christmas Day Street Party which everyone is welcome to attend.

We also know the Christmas period can see a sharp increase in domestic violence – if you or someone you know requires assistance, support is available. You can call 1800 737 732. And if there is immediate danger call Triple-0.

My office hours

Our office will be closed from 25 December to 2 January, but in light of Sunday’s events our inbox will be monitored by a staff member during this time. We appreciate your patience as we deal with a large number of enquiries.

Finally, my heartfelt thank you to the whole community for all your incredible work over this past year. It is a really special privilege to represent Wentworth.

From my family to yours – I wish you a safe, joyful Christmas and a happy New Year.

Allegra Spender MP