On Background: Women’s safety after Bondi

Sydney has been reeling this week from two horrific attacks. Both the Bondi Junction and the Wakeley attacks have raised all sorts of questions about terrorism, mental illness, the spread of misinformation on social media, and community cohesion.There’s also a big question over the safety of women. The Bondi Junction attacker – Joel Cauchi – killed 5 women and one male security guard. The majority of those injured were also women. The NSW Police Commissioner says it’s obvious he was targeting women. This attack may not have been declared an act of terrorism – but it certainly is terrifying, particularly for women. David Speers speaks to Australia’s Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Commissioner Micaela Cronin about whether this aspect of the horrific attack is likely to bring about any policy change. If this conversation raises concerns for you: 1800 Respect National Helpline: 1800 737 732 Men's Referral Service: 1300 766 491 Lifeline (24-hour crisis line): 131 114 Victims of Crime Helpline: 1800 819 817 Full Stop Australia: 1800 385 578