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Dear Curtin community,
The events that have unfolded in Bondi have been shocking and deeply distressing. Curtin stands with the Jewish community in their grief and horror. The loss of life, fear and harm caused by such violence is devastating and our thoughts are with every person and family affected.
This tragedy occurred as people gathered to celebrate Hanukkah – what should be a time of joy and community. It’s a sobering reminder of why standing against antisemitism and all forms of discrimination matters so deeply. Antisemitism is unacceptable at Curtin. Racism, hatred and discrimination in any form are unacceptable. These acts of violence and hate strike at the heart of what Curtin values most: respect, inclusion and care for one another.
Curtin is a diverse university, made up of people from many cultures, faiths and backgrounds. That diversity enriches our lives and learning and it comes with a shared responsibility to make sure everyone feels safe, respected and able to belong. When events like this happen, they remind us how important it is to stand together against hate and to support each other with compassion and humanity.
We know the Curtin Student Guild has shared a strong message of solidarity and care. We echo that call: let’s respond with humanity, not hostility and with dignity, not division. In moments like these, our focus should remain on supporting those harmed or vulnerable and standing against hate in all its forms.
Distressing events such as this can leave people feeling unsettled, anxious or unsafe. Please look after yourselves and each other. Check in on friends and colleagues and if you need support, please reach out. There is no wrong door at Curtin – you can start with any of the services below and they will help connect you to the right place. You can also find more information from the eSafety Commissioner on how to protect yourself online here.
As we try to grapple with this senseless act of violence, I encourage every member of the Curtin community to build their awareness, reflect and always act with respect and care.
Professor Harlene Hayne
Vice-Chancellor, Curtin University
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Support Services:
Students – Student Wellbeing Advisory Service
đź“ž 1800 244 043 (free call)
✉ studentwellbeing@curtin.edu.au
Multi-faith Officer
✉ multifaith@curtin.edu.au
All community members on campus – Safer Community Team (24/7)
đź“žInternal: 4444 | External: (08) 9266 4444
✉ safercommunityteam@curtin.edu.au
Staff – Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
Free & confidential staff counselling is available through PeopleSense.
đź“ž 1300 307 912, via their website or see the Staff Portal.
Immediate help
Lifeline is available 24/7 on 13 11 14.
13Yarn – 24/7 support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people on 13 92 76
In a life‑threatening situation, dial 000.
