We Used to be Journos How the Bondi terror attack was reported
Dec 16, 2025
Jan and Antoinette dive deep into the chaotic first 24 hours following the Bondi terror attack. They explore the emotional impacts of distressing footage shared on social media and the rapid spread of misinformation. The hosts critique the media's response, highlighting the dangers of politicizing breaking news and how certain narratives took hold. They also address the importance of ethical reporting, the heroism of individuals during the crisis, and the urgent conversation surrounding gun laws. A thoughtful look at media responsibility in times of tragedy!
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On-the-Ground Verification By A Host
- Jan Fran described verifying a Hanukkah event by checking Waverley Council and maps to match videos to the festival location.
- She used Journalism 101 steps at home to conclude the attack likely targeted the Hanukkah celebration.
Weekend Newsrooms Leave A Verification Gap
- Weekend newsrooms run skeleton staffing so social media fills the immediate information gap during breaking events.
- That creates intense pressure to verify user videos while audiences demand instant answers.
Pause Before Sharing Graphic Footage
- Pause before sharing graphic footage in the first hours after an attack to avoid harming victims' families.
- Wait for verification and let families be notified before circulating distressing images.