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Hi Vicky,
It always feels like the year hasn’t started until Australia Day - then suddenly we’re already back to school. For those with little ones starting this year, what an exciting time ahead! And to all our families in Wentworth: I hope that 2026 is filled with joy.
As we look forward to the year properly starting, I know we are all still reflecting and moving through a time that has been incredibly hard for our community, and a time that locally, nationally and globally has been tumultuous.
Locally, our community is dealing with the trauma of the Bondi terrorist attack. The pain is still very raw, and we will never be the same, nor should we be. We lost 15 precious lives due to violent antisemitic hatred - that loss will leave permanent scars.
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What I have been reminded of in the past month is the care we have for each other. We have all heard the stories of people risking their own lives to save others, of people comforting each other and of local businesses offering free flowers, coffees and bread in the days that followed. I have also heard from many members of our Jewish community about old friends reaching out to say “We are here for you. You belong”. These small gestures show who we are - a community that sees the humanity in one another. This is how we begin to heal together. But we know that work will take months and years.
Many of us are also grieving the passing of beautiful 12-year-old local Nico Antic, who tragically died following a shark attack at Nielsen Park. It is devastating we lost Nico while he was doing something so familiar to all of us: enjoying our harbour with friends. The hearts of our entire community go out to Nico’s parents, family, friends, surf club and sports mates. A GoFundMe has been set up to support his family during this incredibly difficult time, and you can contribute by clicking here.
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During what has been a deeply painful time, the strength of our community has never been clearer. We are resilient, diverse and cohesive, but we cannot take that for granted. Recent global news reminds us how fragile cohesion is. If we are going to withstand the fractures we see overseas, we must stay focused on what holds us together as a country. That will require honesty, compassion, and some hard conversations.
It can feel difficult to make sense of it all. But this is when your engagement in our politics is more important than ever, because our democracy is only as good as its people. I am deeply grateful that you continue to use your voice.
Times like this also make clear how critical it is to look after ourselves and each other. It is okay - and often healthy - to step back from the news. This article includes some advice from psychologists on keeping happy during darkness. You might also consider doing a mitzvah - an act of kindness - to stay connected to the people around you. And if you need support, help is always available. You don’t have to do this alone.
Below is an update on my priorities in Parliament for the months ahead, some community news and an update at the end on the community supports available following Bondi, as well as a summary of the hate speech laws that passed Parliament.
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Priorities for the Months Ahead
In the next couple weeks, there is a range of legislation on the table for Parliament. I will keep the community updated as this progresses, but wanted to share a broader view of what you have asked me to focus on in the months ahead.
Social cohesion
Strengthening social cohesion is something I have long been pushing for and will remain a major focus of mine, particularly after the Bondi attack made clear why this is urgent.
A key focus for me will be on policies to address extremism and radicalisation. I put these issues to the Prime Minister during Question Time a few weeks ago, and will keep the pressure up this as well as what we must do to address security concerns.
However, I think the truth is we cannot legislate this issue away. Our social fabric is built at the community level - through our personal relationships and the little things we do together. It’s the dinner table conversations, the chats at the pub, at the school gates and in our clubs that will make the difference. An initiative that we kicked off last year at the local level was hosting roundtables with schools leaders and students from across Wentworth to discuss how we strengthen social cohesion amongst our young people. Those early discussions focused on understanding the challenges students are facing, and this year I’m looking forward to reconvening the group to work on practical, student-led initiatives.
At a broader level, we must constantly remind ourselves of the promise Australia makes that we value each person for who they are as an individual, not for the group they represent. We must be able to look beyond our differences and see what holds us together.
That doesn’t mean shying away from the hard conversations – if anything, it’s more of a reason to have them. We need to be able to disagree vehemently on issues, find solutions or at least common ground and then keep going as a community. When we fail to have these conversations ourselves, we risk others - including extremists - having them for us.
A question I keep coming back to and would genuinely love your thoughts on is: how do we get better at doing this as a community? I appreciate any thoughts, ideas, reflections you have on this issue.
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Tax reform
I will also continue to push hard on tax reform. In a time of global instability and rising populism, economic growth, fairness and opportunity matter more than ever. Because we know that populism and grievance politics take root when people feel the system isn’t working for them and can’t see a way to get ahead.
That is why I’m particularly concerned hearing over and over again the same concerns from our community: younger Australians are falling behind, businesses are struggling and productivity is falling, and our energy transition is happening too slowly to protect our climate - and at far too high a cost. These issues cannot be ignored any longer.
I’ve been inspired recently by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s speech at the World Economic Forum. There are many takeaways and I highly recommend watching the full speech, but something that has stayed with me is the urgency of economic change. Incremental tweaks are not enough. We need to be willing to rethink settings that are no longer working.
I’m glad our country is starting to have a serious conversation about this and am excited to be releasing further work on this soon, so please keep an eye out over the coming weeks.
Holding the government to account
Another priority I will continue to focus on is ensuring that the Government acts on the evidence and recommendations it receives.
Too often, we see major inquiries and reports released, only for the Government to stall on meaningful action. This is not good enough.
I will keep pressing the Government to respond to reports such as Peta Murphy’s report on gambling reform, which sets out clear steps to reduce gambling harm in Australia, and the Domestic Violence Rapid Review, which the government is yet to respond in full to.
It is not an overstatement to say that these reports, if acted upon, could change lives. A response from the Government is long overdue.
Medical research
Dr Monique Ryan has recently launched her Medical Research Matters campaign, calling on the Government to properly fund medical research in Australia.
Wentworth is home to extraordinary researchers who are making world-leading contributions. One of our own, Professor Henry Brodaty AO, was recently named 2026 Senior Australian of the Year for his groundbreaking work in dementia research. We must ensure our scientists have the support they need to continue their vital work - not just for Australia, but for the world.
I am very glad to support this campaign and if you would like to add your voice - please click here.
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Community News
Paddle Out for Nico Antic
Rose Bay Secondary College has organised a community paddle out to celebrate Nico's life. It is on this Sunday February 1st 7am in North Bondi and is an opportunity for the community to come together in support of Nico’s family and friends.
Watsons Bay Summer Market
Watsons Bay Summer Market returns for its ninth year. It’s a great chance to support local stallholders and enjoy the harbour setting. On Sunday February 1st from 10am - 4pm @ 22 Military Road, Watsons Bay.
Celebrate Double Bay Festival
Double Bay will be transformed into an open-street festival from February 21st - 22nd. For more information, please click here.
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Supporting local businesses in Bondi
Many Bondi businesses stepped up for the community in the days after the attack, but in recent weeks the area has been much quieter, and some businesses are feeling the impact. If you can, please pop in and show your support - whether it’s grabbing a coffee or a tasty meal!
Australia Day Honours
Wentworth had a huge list of Australia Day Honours recipients this year. I am incredibly proud to represent a community that contributes so much to our country. You can see the full list here.
Cross Street Carpark consultation
Woollahra Council is seeking community feedback on the proposed Cross Street Carpark development. If you have views or want to stay informed, I encourage you to take part in the consultation. For more information click here.
Yarranabbe Park upgrade
There is also community consultation underway on the proposed upgrades to Yarranabbe Park. This is an important local space, and community input will help shape its future. Click here for more info.
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In the Media
Updates after the Bondi terrorist attack
Last week, Parliament passed new legislation in response to the Bondi attack. The new laws strengthen Australia’s response to violent hatred and extremism by:
- increasing penalties for serious hate-related crimes and creating new aggravated offences for those who incite or threaten violence;
- establishing a framework to list and prohibit extremist organisations;
- expanding offences related to hate-motivated conduct and symbols; and
- strengthening visa refusal and cancellation powers where individuals are involved in hateful or extremist activity.
The legislation was passed alongside a complementary Bill that includes a national gun buyback framework, tougher controls on firearms imports, and stronger use of intelligence in firearms licensing decisions.
I supported these laws because they respond directly to the deep concern and distress so many of you shared with me after the attack. However, I have also been clear to the government that the process was rushed and imperfect, with limited opportunity for scrutiny these laws deserved. I was also disappointed that the Government stepped back from introducing a new serious vilification offence. I have been calling for such an offence since 2024, but one that extends protection to all vulnerable groups, including LGBTQIA+ Australians, people with disability and people targeted on the basis of religion, as well as race and ethnicity. I will continue to push for more comprehensive protections.
No law can undo the harm caused by this tragedy. But these reforms send a clear message that hatred and violence have no place in Australia. I know there are a range of views in our community about these laws, including concerns about freedom of expression. I value that feedback and will continue to closely monitor how the laws are implemented to ensure they are effective, fair and respectful of civil liberties.
Victim support
Families of those who have tragically lost their lives and anyone who was a witness on the day may be eligible for the Victims Support Scheme and Bondi Beach Victim Recovery Payment.
For more information about how to access support, call the dedicated Victims Services Critical Incident Line on 1800 411 822 (Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm).
Jewish community support
A centralised phone number has been created to direct individuals to the appropriate service offerings. This is a 24/7 service, throughout the holiday season, including public holidays and Shabbat, for all levels of support.
Please call 1800 979 676.
Mental health support
In recognition of the effect of the Bondi attack on the broader community, a free Medicare Mental Health Centre is now open at JNC (Junction Neighbourhood Centre) Bondi Junction.
You do not need a Medicare card, an appointment or a referral, and the clinic is open to anyone who needs support. There are no fees and no judgement, and is not limited to those impacted by the Bondi attack.
The team onsite is multidisciplinary, with trauma informed specialists. To access the service, you can walk-in from 9am - 5pm or call 1800 595 212. An online referral option will also be available in the coming weeks.
For other forms of support, please know you can call the NSW Health’s dedicated Mental Health Line 24/7 on 1800 011 511.
And for those responsible for children, ensure they understand that Kids Helpline is always available. They can call 1800 55 1800 or chat online at kidshelpline.com.au.
Local business support
Impacted businesses can apply for small business grants. This can be done by attending the Community Hub at Bondi Pavilion or contacting Service NSW on 13 77 88 to organise a meeting with a Business Concierge member.
For any further information on the supports available, please view the NSW Government’s website page here.
Thank you for your ongoing engagement and I look forward to continuing to work with our community in 2026. If there is anything our office can assist you with, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Warmest,
Allegra Spender MP
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Allegra Spender MP Federal Member for Wentworth
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