Australian Leaders Condemn Pro-Palestine Vigils on 7 October 2026

Australian leaders have condemned pro-Palestine vigils planned for the 7 October anniversary, as Jewish Australians prepare to mark the third anniversary of the Hamas attacks amid ongoing safety fears. The anniversary falls on Wednesday, with Labor state governments speaking out against the vigils while peak Jewish bodies organise commemorations across capital cities.

Jewish Australians Mark 7 October Anniversary Amid Safety Concerns

Jewish Australians will mark the third anniversary of the 7 October attacks on Wednesday, with commemorations planned across the country. Peak Jewish bodies have organised events in capital cities but have avoided publicising locations due to ongoing fears for community safety since the Bondi terror attack in December.

Hamas militants killed about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took 251 others hostage in the surprise attack on Israel in 2023, triggering the ongoing Israel-Gaza war in which 74,000 Palestinians have been killed. The anniversary has become a focal point for both remembrance and protest.

Condemnation of Pro-Palestine Vigils by Australian Leaders

Labor state governments have condemned pro-Palestinian vigils scheduled for the same day. The vigils, organised by pro-Palestine groups, are seen by many as provocative and insensitive to the Jewish community's day of mourning. Australian leaders have urged for calm and respect, emphasising the need for social cohesion during a tense period.

"United in remembrance and resilience, we stand with Israel and the Jewish people, joined by our fellow Australians against hatred and extremism," reads a description for an evening event run by the Zionist Council of NSW and backed by the United Israel Appeal.

Commemoration Events Across Australia

In Sydney's eastern suburbs, a dawn commemoration will start at 6.29am, marking the exact time Hamas' attack began. An evening community event will follow, organised by the Zionist Council of NSW. In Melbourne, Zionism Victoria has planned an outdoor evening ceremony on Wednesday. On the night before the anniversary, attendees at a Melbourne event were expected to hear a first-hand account from an Israeli soldier who was in the country during the attacks.

A documentary exploring experiences of Israeli trauma professionals will also be screened as part of the commemorations. These events aim to honour the victims and support those affected by the attacks.

Key Takeaways

• Australian leaders condemn pro-Palestine vigils on the 7 October anniversary.
• Jewish communities hold commemorations across capital cities amid safety fears.
• Dawn and evening events planned in Sydney and Melbourne.
• Ongoing tensions since the Bondi terror attack in December.
• Community urged to stand against hatred and extremism.

Comparison of Events

FAQ