Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald has announced that as a mark of respect for the victims of the Bondi Beach mass shooting, Council flags will be lowered to half-mast and a minute’s silence will be observed at Tuesday’s Council meeting.

Cr McDonald issued a statement on behalf of his fellow Councillors and all staff of Kiama Municipal Council, to “extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those who have lost their lives, and we wish a full recovery to those who have been injured”.

“Like so many Australians, we are deeply saddened and shocked by the tragic events that unfolded in Bondi.

“There is no place in our society for violence, hatred, racism or antisemitism.

"Acts of violence against innocent people are an attack on the values that bind us together as a community - respect, compassion and care for one another.

“We also acknowledge the extraordinary efforts of police, paramedics, hospital staff and all first responders who acted swiftly and courageously in the face of such confronting circumstances.

“We also acknowledge the bravery of those private citizens who assisted.

“Kiama Municipal Council stands in solidarity with the broader community as we mourn this tragedy.

“At times like this, it is important that we look out for one another.

“Any member of our community who is feeling distressed or in need of support is encouraged to reach out to Lifeline on 13 11 14, Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636, or other local support services.”

Authorities have announced that 15 people were killed by the terrorist attack which targeted a Jewish gathering near the beach on Sunday evening with 42 people, including four children, rushed to hospital for treatment after two gunmen opened fire.

One of the gunmen, Sajid Akram, 50, was killed by police while the other one, his son, Naveed Akram, 24, was wounded and is under an armed guard in hospital.

Naveem had told his mother Verena that he and his father had gone to Jervis Bay for a weekend fishing trip.

Shoalhaven Mayor Patricia White said her community "stands alongside our wonderful country offering our deepest sympathies to those dealing with unimaginable grief as a result of this terrorist act in Bondi".

"I know we are all saddened and shocked by these horrible terrorist acts which was clearly targeted against Jewish Australians.

"It is beyond comprehension and I know we are all so proud of those brave souls and courage of our first responders to face this evil.

"There is no place for hate, violence and terrorism in our community. We must unite and the flags of our city will be flown at half-mast as a sign of respect to those Australians who have lost their lives in this tragedy."

NSW Premier Chris Minns condemned the cowardly attack.

“There is no tolerance for racism or Jewish hatred anywhere in NSW or Australia and we need to be clear and unambiguous that we’ll fight it everywhere we see it, whether it’s destructive, horrible acts of violence, or chants, mottos and internet posts on the internet,” Minns said.

"It is important no stone is left unturned and NSW Police are given time to conduct that investigation, but we have to do everything we possibly can to ensure that this doesn’t happen again."

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the attack deliberately targeted the Jewish community.

"On the first day of Hanukkah, which of course should be a joyous celebration and the Jewish community are hurting today," he said.

“Today all Australians wrap our arms around them. And say we stand with you.

"We will do whatever is necessary to stamp out anti-Semitism. It is a scourge and we’ll eradicate it together.”

NSW Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane, who is the local member as the Vaucluse MP, was nearby when the incident happened on Sunday night and helped victims as the carnage unfolded.

"No community in this country should live in fear," she said.

"This is an attack on our shared sense of safety and belonging

"Tonight, our community and state stand together, determined that light will overcome darkness."

King Charles issued a statement to say he was "appalled and saddened by the most dreadful antisemitic terrorist attack".

"In times of hurt Australians always rally together in unity and resolve."

Those who died are yet to be formally identified; however, police believe their ages range between 10 and 87.

Five people remain in critical conditions with the others remaining in serious and stable conditions.

Two officers – a constable and a probationary constable – were injured and remain in serious but stable conditions.

A significant crime scene has been established closing Bondi Beach and surrounding roads, and detectives from the Joint Counter Terrorism Team have commenced an investigation into the incident.

Following initial inquiries, detectives have located and seized three firearms from the scene. They will all undergo forensic examination.

Investigations are continuing.