The state government has set up a support service hub in the heart of Bondi to assist those affected by the terrorist attack earlier this month.
The Bondi Hub will be open to the eastern suburbs community and those directly or indirectly impacted by the December 14 shooting at the Chanukah by the Sea event at Bondi Beach, where 15 people were killed.
"You can get access to emergency care, emergency counselling, or financial help and advice in this most difficult of times," NSW Premier Chris Minns said.From the over 50 people who attended hospital with injuries, to the 123 paramedics and multiple surf lifesavers on site, and also local residents, Mr Minns anticipated that hundreds would attend the hub.
he said."It's a safe place for you to come and speak to someone to get urgent help during a difficult time … this is a traumatic event for this community,"
Mr Minns acknowledged the site location for the hub at the Bondi Pavilion "might be confronting for some members of the community".
Hub to be a place of 'connection'
Chabad of Bondi director Rabbi Yehoram Ulman visited the hub on Monday morning to bless the site and make sure it operated in a kosher way, in a bid to further show support towards the Jewish community.
The Jewish Board of Deputies also oversaw the establishing of the hub.
Mayor of Waverley Council, Will Nemesh, said the hub would be a place for "connection".
"It may be difficult, it may be confronting, but the state government, in particular Waverley Council, will do everything we can to support our community during this difficult time," he said.
Mr Minns reiterated there would be an increased police presence surrounding the hub and Bondi area.
"The security for our community is the most important responsibility of any government and the truth of the matter is we failed on that on the 14th of December, and I'm not going to make that mistake twice."
Ahead of New Year's Eve, Sydneysiders will see more police officers carrying long-armed guns in a bid to restore community confidence.
The hub will be in place until at least the end of January, with the option to extend if needed.
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