December 15th, 2025

Lifeline scales up response to support anyone in distress following Bondi Beach terror attack

• To support the community, Lifeline has developed a specific Wellbeing Guide on the online Support Toolkit.
• The guide has information on common trauma responses, supporting children and young people, techniques, strategies and other resources to help people cope and find ways to get further support.

Lifeline is reminding all Australians that if they're feeling distressed or overwhelmed following the terror attack at Bondi Beach on 14 December 2025, they are not alone.

Lifeline CEO Graham Strong said the organisation had issued an urgent call out to boost the number of Crisis Supporters on shift on Sunday night and had been overwhelmed by the scale of the response which meant Lifeline was able to provide immediate specialised support.

"Lifeline acknowledges the immense impact of the tragic terror attack at Bondi Beach on Sunday, not only on those who were directly involved, but also on witnesses, families, first responders, and local communities," said Mr Strong.

"Last night, so many of our volunteers and staff responded by jumping on to our phone and digital services and taking extra shifts to ensure that no matter the demand, anyone who needed support could get it immediately. We are so incredibly grateful for their empathy, generosity and strength that they have shown, even while they were processing the events on a personal level."

"Lifeline is liaising with NSW Health, as well as our Members on the ground in and around Bondi. We will continue to engage with local authorities on how best to manage trauma response within the community and nationally in the weeks and months ahead."

"Lifeline will be there for anyone who is overwhelmed, struggling to cope, or just in need of someone to talk to."

"In times like this, connecting with others can be really helpful. By showing compassion, offering support, and encouraging others to seek help, you can play a crucial role in helping them through this difficult time", added Mr Strong.

"These reactions may come and go or feel overwhelming at times. This does not mean anything is 'wrong' with you, it can be your body and mind responding to trauma."

"If these reactions worsen, do not ease over time, or begin to interfere with your safety or daily functioning, reaching out for professional support is important. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000)."

"If you are struggling, please remember you can phone Lifeline any time of the day or night to speak to a Crisis Supporter on 1311 14, text 0477131 114, or chat to Lifeline online at lifeline.org.au," she added.

Lifeline is committed to supporting any Australian through their toughest moments. If you're unsure where to turn, Lifeline's Support Toolkit at lifeline.org.au/toolkit can help you find the most appropriate support.

For Indigenous or Torres Strait Islander peoples: If you, or someone you know, are feeling worried or no good, you can connect with 13YARN on 139276 (24 hours/7 days) and talk with an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Crisis Supporter.

To donate to Lifeline, visit www.lifeline.org.au/donate.

About Lifeline

For over 60 years, Lifeline has been connecting with Australians, offering free and confidential one-to-one crisis support for people who are feeling overwhelmed or having difficulty coping. Trained crisis supporters listen without judgement 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

As well as operating the 131114 telephone line within 43 Centres around the nation, the organisation also delivers 24/7 crisis text, webchat and a Support Toolkit. Lifeline expects to respond to over 1.4 million requests for support this year, creating an average of 120 safety plans a day to keep a person experiencing suicidal ideation safe.