Retail peak bodies, the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) and the National Retail Association (NRA), alongside major apparel retail businesses have responded to the Bondi Junction tragedy over the weekend where six people were killed and several others were injured. The attacker was also fatally shot at the scene by a member of the NSW Police Force.
“The tragic events at Bondi Junction yesterday, which are still unfolding in their impact, have left our retail community and the broader community in deep shock,” ARA CEO Paul Zahra said.
“Our heartfelt condolences to all affected during this difficult time. We also recognise the incredible courage and rapid response undertaken by brave frontline retail workers and first responders who acted quickly to protect Australians during this harrowing incident.
“The ARA is in discussions with NSW Government about support services for retail teams and their customers who may have been affected by this terrible tragedy.”
The NRA also issued a statement saying the team and its retailers are devastated by the events at Bondi Junction Westfield.
“We commend shop owners, retail workers and shoppers for their courage in protecting and aiding fellow shoppers during this terrorising incident,” the statement read.
“We also commend the police officer that responded to the incident, neutralising the perpetrator.
“Crime and violence in and around retail precincts are on the rise, and the industry needs urgent safeguards in place to prevent these dangerous situations from happening.
“Retail workers have a right to feel safe on the job and Australians have a right to feel safe when they are shopping.”
Alongside the retail peak bodies, major fashion retailers including Country Road Group, Cotton On Group and Kmart shared responses to the tragedy via social media.
"Our thoughts are with all of those impacted and we extend our deepest sympathies to those who have lost loved ones," Country Road Group shared on LinkedIn.
"We thank our team members, store partners and first responders whose quick actions ensured the safety of many.
"Our stores at Westfield Bondi Junction will remain closed for the time being, while we focus on supporting our team members."
Meanwhile, Kmart CEO John Gualtieri said the events have left both retailers and customers in shock.
"Our hearts go out to the families of the victims of this senseless tragedy, and we offer our thanks to those caring for those injured, as well as our first responders and emergency services," Gualtieri said.
"We acknowledge the bravery and calmness that the people working in our own store and all those around the centre showed in the face of extreme circumstances, responding rapidly to lock-down stores and shelter team members and customers until they could be escorted to safety by emergency services.
"We will be working to provide all possible support to those impacted by these tragic events."
Cotton On Group shared its condolences as well to the families of the victims and the wider community, adding that its Bondi store will remain closed in the short term as the business continues to support its team.
Bondi Junction Westfield houses three department stores, Kmart, Myer and David Jones, and over 100 other fashion, footwear and accessories retailers.
Westfield parent company Scentre Group also issued a statement this morning, saying the group extends its deepest and heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims and all those impacted by this tragedy.
"Our team continues to provide full assistance to the NSW police and their investigation," the statement read. "Post the incident, Westfield Bondi was closed. It will open in due course.
"The Group extends its appreciation for the swift and brave actions of our team, members of the public, first responders and our business partners. Counselling and support services are available to our people, customers and business partners."
All community members are reminded to contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 for support, or online.
Westfield Bondi Junction is expected to remain closed as police continue their investigations.
Anyone with information regarding the incident or who may possess footage of what happened is encouraged to contact CRIME STOPPERS on 1800 333 000.