The end of the year is a time for reflection. Whether your family is celebrating Christmas, Chanukah or other end of year traditions, December is when we think about the year that was, and what the next year may deliver.

Last week, I visited the Dalai Lama in northern India as a guest of the Australia Tibet Council. I carried home his messages of peace, tolerance and mutual respect; the non-violence and compassion he has been spreading for all his 90 years.

As I arrived home on Sunday evening, our country was experiencing the most horrific terrorist attack at Bondi Beach, fulfilling the worst nightmare of Jewish Australians.

Bewildering and senseless violence leaves us feeling helpless – fuelling division and casting blame, often wrongly.

Beyond the targeting of Jewish Australians gathered in peaceful celebration, this was an attack on all Australians and our way of life. Whether relaxing at the beach, or observing activities of faith, everyone deserves to be safe, secure and free to enjoy public expressions of community.

Of course, our governments must act swiftly to ensure the safety of all Australians. But we all have a role to play in the necessary healing after this devastating tragedy.

We must remember that the things that unite us are greater than the things that divide us.

The Dalai Lama says it simply: whether or not there is a God, we can all agree on love and compassion.

One of the terrorists was born in Australia and he grew up here. And Ahmed al-Ahmed, demonstrating true heroism and saving many lives by wrestling a gun from a shooter, was born and raised in Syria. Both men are Muslim, but only one of them demonstrates the qualities that make us proud to be Australian.

The biggest threat to our peace-loving, multicultural society is not a particular faith nor a country of birth, it’s hateful prejudice, intolerance and ignorance.

As the year comes to an end, we have a responsibility to one another to choose compassion over hate and unity over division. Please be kind, find common ground, and reflect on the strengths we have when we embrace diversity and inclusion.

No matter your faith, I wish you and your family a peaceful and safe festive season.

May 2026 bring out the best in all of us.