Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced a new national bravery award to honor civilians and first responders who intervened during the Dec. 14 Hanukkah mass shooting that killed 15 people. Officials describe the attack as ISIS‑inspired and motivated by antisemitism. Albanese praised acts of courage — including those of Ahmed al Ahmed and bystanders Boris and Sofia Gurman — and said the award will be administered through Australia’s existing honours system.
Australia To Create National Bravery Award After Deadly Antisemitic Hanukkah Attack
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and wife Jodie Haydon attend a memorial held for the victims of a shooting at Bondi Beach in Sydney Dec. 21, 2025.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Thursday that his government will establish a national bravery award to honor civilians and first responders who risked their lives during the Dec. 14 mass shooting at a Hanukkah celebration that left 15 people dead. Officials have described the attack as ISIS‑inspired and motivated by antisemitism.
What The Prime Minister Said
"This Christmas is a different one because of the anti‑terror and the terrorist attack motivated by ISIS and antisemitism. But, at the same time, as we have seen the worst of humanity, we have seen the bravery and kindness and compassion ... from those who rushed to danger," Albanese said at a press conference.
Albanese outlined plans for a special honours recognition within Australia’s existing Honors and Awards system to recognize people nominated for bravery or meritorious awards for their actions during and after the attack. The move comes amid nationwide vigils and public grief; the prime minister was reportedly booed during a ceremony at Bondi Beach.
Acts Of Courage
The prime minister singled out several individuals whose actions were captured on video. Ahmed al Ahmed, a Syria‑born Australian shopkeeper, was filmed tackling and disarming one of the gunmen before being wounded. Bystanders Boris and Sofia Gurman confronted a gunman at Bondi Beach; authorities say they were later overpowered and killed when the violence escalated.
Investigation And Charges
Police allege the attack was carried out by a father and son, 50‑year‑old Sajid Akram and his 24‑year‑old son, Naveed Akram. Investigators say the pair recorded a video manifesto containing antisemitic content and expressions of support for the Islamic State and that the attack may have been planned over several months. Only the son survived; he now faces murder and terrorism charges.
The government’s proposed bravery recognition aims to formally acknowledge the courage of bystanders, community members and emergency personnel who confronted the attack or aided victims in its aftermath. The report includes contributions from Fox News Digital and The Associated Press.
