King Charles has praised the “spontaneous bravery” of those who put themselves in “harm’s way to defend others” during the Bondi Beach attack in his poignant Christmas speech.

King Charles praised individuals who risked their lives to save others in situations of violence, including those in the Bondi Beach attack in Australia.

The King's annual Christmas message has paid tribute to those who show "spontaneous bravery" and put "themselves in harm's way to defend others".

The Christmas message of “peace and reconciliation” delivered by angels when they proclaimed the arrival of Jesus — “the greatest pilgrimage of all” — was a “prayer for our times and our communities”, said the King in conclusion.

Charles also celebrated the “Second World War values of courage and sacrifice” in his annual festive address to the nation

Just a day after pushing through the country's toughest firearm laws, New South Wales state leader Chris Minns issued a plea for national solidarity, urging Australians to support their Jewish neighbours during what he described as a fortnight of “heartbreak and pain".

Probationary Constable Jack Hibbert was discharged from a hospital on the same day that Australia's most populous state is set to pass tougher gun laws.

King Charles used his Christmas message to urge people to draw strength from “unity in diversity” as conflicts and tensions strain societies worldwide. He framed shared values across different faiths and cultures as the basis for resisting injustice and supporting people displaced by war and hardship.

Australia is honouring brave civilians and first responders. They showed courage during a deadly antisemitic terror attack near Bondi Beach. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced national bravery honours on Christmas Day.