At least 12 people have been killed in a mass shooting at Bondi Beach in Sydney, an incident now formally designated a terrorist attack by police. The attack unfolded on Sunday evening as hundreds gathered near the beachfront to mark the first day of Hanukkah.
Police said multiple gunmen opened fire around 6.30 pm near a crowded footbridge close to the beach, triggering widespread panic. Visuals circulating online showed two men dressed in black firing at people as crowds ran for safety.
Authorities confirmed that one of the shooters was killed during the incident. The second suspected shooter is in critical condition. Their identities have not yet been released.
In total, 29 people have been taken to hospitals across Sydney, including two police officers injured during the response. Several victims remain in serious condition. At least 11 people were injured at the beach itself, while others sustained injuries in surrounding areas as people fled the scene.
Police believe between 50 and 100 rounds were fired, indicating the scale and intensity of the attack. Around two hours after the shooting, officers entered a residential unit above a business premises and detained a 60-year-old man, who was later hospitalised with injuries sustained during his arrest. In a separate development, another man later arrived at a hospital with a gunshot wound and remains in serious condition.
Bondi Beach was crowded at the time due to a public Hanukkah celebration, heightening fears that the gathering may have been deliberately targeted. Investigators are examining whether the attackers acted alone or were part of a wider network.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the shooting as &ldquo;shocking and distressing,&rdquo; as national leaders expressed grief and solidarity with the victims and their families.
The area remains sealed as a major crime scene while counter-terror units, forensic teams, and intelligence agencies continue investigations. Authorities have urged the public to avoid the area and rely only on official updates as the situation continues to evolve.
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Bondi Beach Shooting: Two Arrested, Chaos Unfolds

Multiple shot at Bondi Beach as police respond to active scene; crowds flee, two suspects

Bondi Beach Terror Attack Leaves 12 Dead

Multiple shot at Bondi Beach as police respond to active scene; crowds flee, two suspects

December 14, 2025 | 15:30 IST