On 13 April 2024, Westfield Bondi Junction was the location of a tragedy that resulted in six innocent people losing their lives, including one of Scentre Group’s security team members. The offender responsible for the attack died onsite. A significant number of people sustained serious injuries. Many more people in the community witnessed these horrific events.
In a statement issued yesterday, Scentre Group Chief Executive Officer, Elliott Rusanow said: “It is with immense sadness that I confirm the terrible news that one of our security team members, Faraz Ahmad Tahir, suffered fatal injuries while trying to protect the community during yesterday’s tragedy in Westfield Bondi.
“We are devastated by Faraz’s passing and recognise our team member’s bravery and role as a first responder.
“Our deepest and heartfelt condolences go out to his family and all who are mourning the loss of loved ones.
“Our thoughts and concerns are also with the families and carers of those injured in the attack and the everyday heroes whose actions prevented further loss of life.
“Another member of our security team was injured and remains in hospital.
“This news is deeply felt by our Westfield Bondi team, our security partner GLAD and the entire Scentre Group team.
“We are providing mental health and counselling services for our customers, business partners and people.
“Our team continues to provide full assistance to the NSW emergency services response and investigations into yesterday’s tragedy,” said Rusanow.
The Shopping Centre Council of Australia (SCCA) has also expressed its shock and sadness at the events at Bondi Junction over the weekend.
SCCA Chief Executive, Angus Nardi said: “We pay tribute to the NSW Police and other first responders. We would also like to acknowledge the brave actions and tragic loss of Westfield team member, security guard Faraz Ahmad Tahir, and the brave actions of other staff and shoppers on the day.
“We remain in close contact with our member Scentre Group and formally recognise their efforts and compassion during this tragic incident, including their support for the ongoing NSW Police investigation.
“We welcome the Prime Minister’s comments in relation to a potential review of security arrangements, and we stand ready to engage on any relevant public policy and security issues.
“Our industry has a longstanding Community Safety and Security Committee, which advises on key industry security issues, and we have engaged on key public policy issues, and with Police and other agencies over a long period of time.
“Community safety and security is a priority for our industry, and we take very seriously that shopping centres are public places, are at the heart of our communities, and our visitors can include families and children.
“Our members’ shopping centres have mature security arrangements in relation to relevant risks, and dedicated teams and staff who undertake their roles with care, compassion and duty. Our industry is committed and ready to work with governments and relevant stakeholders on any learnings to ensure our staff and visitors stay safe,” said Nardi.
The Shopping Centre Council of Australia (SCCA) is the national industry group for major shopping centre owners, managers and developers.
