Bondi Attack – Community Support Session | Newcastle & Surrounds

For those impacted by the Bondi attack.

Recent events have affected many people across Australia, including those who were not directly involved. The Bondi attack on the Jewish community and our shared way of life may have left you feeling unsettled, distressed, hyper-alert, or emotionally overwhelmed.

This free community support session is offered to members of the Newcastle and the surrounding community who have been directly or indirectly impacted by these events.

Date: 31st January 2026

Time: 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Location: To be announced (Newcastle area or Online)

What approach will be used?

This session will use ASSYST (Acute Stress Syndrome Stabilisation) an evidence-based, trauma-informed group intervention used internationally following distressing or shocking events.

ASSYST is designed to help calm the nervous system and reduce distress following exposure to trauma or ongoing stress, without requiring participants to revisit or discuss details of the event.

It is an psychological early-intervention based on Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.

What’s important to know

• This is a silent, guided technique

• You do not need to speak, share, or discuss personal experiences

• Nothing is written or read aloud

• The process is internal and completed at your own pace

• You remain fully in control throughout the session

• Many people find this approach gentle, grounding, and supportive

Who is this session for?

✔ Adults and young people aged 16 years and over

✔ Anyone feeling emotionally, mentally, or physically impacted

✔ No previous therapy experience required

This is not group therapy, and no personal stories are shared.

A respectful and safe space

This session is offered in a quiet, culturally respectful, and supportive environment. You are welcome to attend exactly as you are. To maintain safety for everyone, facilitators may intervene if behaviours become disruptive or unsafe. Where necessary, venue security or emergency services may be contacted.

Facilitators

The session will be facilitated by experienced, registered psychologists trained in trauma-response group interventions.

Registration

Registration is essential, as places are limited.

If you are unsure whether this session is right for you, please feel free to contact us (NMHCRN@gmail.com) with any questions.