In a powerful display of unity, a coalition of Victoria’s diverse multicultural and multifaith communities gathered last night for a solemn vigil, offering a collective embrace to the Jewish community following the devastating antisemitic terror attack in Sydney.

Held at St Peter’s Eastern Hill Hall and convened by the Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC), the event marked one week since the tragedy at Bondi Beach that claimed fifteen innocent lives. The vigil served as a profound reaffirmation of the state’s shared commitment to respect, compassion, and the unbreakable bonds of social cohesion.

“Antisemitism has no place in our society,” stated the VMC, a sentiment that echoed throughout the evening. “Together, we stand united against hate and violence, committed to building a Victoria where every community feels safe, respected and supported.”

The ceremony saw leaders from across Victoria’s social fabric standing shoulder-to-shoulder. The Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Ingrid Stitt MP, joined the gathering, underscoring the government’s solidarity. The atmosphere was one of shared grief and unwavering support.

Naomi Levin, CEO of the Jewish Community Council of Victoria, delivered a heartfelt address, giving voice to the profound pain and anxiety reverberating through the Jewish community. “The trauma of such a targeted attack is deep and personal,” she shared with the assembled crowd, her words met with a respectful and empathetic silence.

This theme of shared humanity was amplified by faith leaders. Archbishop Ric Thorpe, Phong Nguyen, and Batul Gulani each offered condolences and emphasised the critical importance of maintaining harmony and mutual understanding among all Victorians.

In one of the vigil’s most poignant moments, fifteen candles—provided by the Jewish Museum of Victoria—were lit by multicultural community leaders. Each flame represented a life lost in Sydney, a silent, glowing tribute to the victims. Following the lighting, Rabbi Ralph Genende OAM offered a moving memorial prayer, filling the hall with a spirit of remembrance and solace.

The evening culminated in a symbolic act of communal care. Together, the diverse assembly walked the candles and bouquets of flowers from the hall to the nearby East Melbourne Synagogue. This quiet procession through the streets was a visible testament to a simple, powerful truth: in Victoria, no community mourns alone.

The vigil, marked by the hashtags #UnityandSolidarity, #VMC, and #MulticulturalVictoria, stands as a clear counterpoint to the language of division. It demonstrated that the collective response to hatred is not fear, but a stronger, more determined fellowship—a promise etched in candlelight to protect the inclusive heart of the state.