17-4-2024 (CANBERRA) The Australian government has announced that it will bestow permanent residency upon Damien Guerot, the courageous French citizen who confronted the Bondi Junction attacker with a bollard. However, despite Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressing a desire for Guerot to become an Australian citizen, citizenship itself cannot be granted due to existing residency requirements.
Guerot, a construction worker from France, gained the moniker “bollard man” after CCTV footage captured his brave act of confronting Joel Cauchi on an escalator at Westfield Bondi Junction. Cauchi had allegedly stabbed six people, leading to their tragic deaths, before being fatally shot by the police.
During a press conference in Canberra, Albanese commended Guerot for his extraordinary bravery and offered to assist in resolving any visa issues the French citizen might face. It was reported that Guerot’s visa is set to expire in July. Albanese stated, “You are welcome here, you are welcome to stay for as long as you like.” While expressing a desire for Guerot to become an Australian citizen, the Prime Minister acknowledged that it would be a loss for France.
#DamienGuérot héros français de l’#Australie #Sydney #Bondi ???????????????? https://t.co/zeyuX0M8dg pic.twitter.com/AOqFJJPa7O
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Albanese further commented on the significance of Guerot’s actions, stating, “It says a lot about the nature of humanity at a time when we are facing difficult issues, that someone who is not a citizen of this country stood bravely at the top of those escalators and stopped this perpetrator from getting on to another floor and potentially inflicting further carnage on citizens. I think that on Saturday we saw some of the best of human character at the same time as we saw such devastating tragedy. And I thank Damien for his extraordinary efforts.”
The news of being granted permanent residency was received with joy by Guerot, as he expressed his appreciation to his lawyer, Belinda Robertson. The immigration department contacted Guerot and informed him that official confirmation of his permanent residency would be provided “as soon as possible.” Robertson conveyed her delight, stating, “It is truly heartwarming for something positive to come out of all the pain and tragedy.”
Andrew Giles, the immigration minister, praised Guerot’s extraordinary bravery and emphasized the exemplary character that society admires. Giles assured that Guerot’s case was being looked into by the department to explore possible visa options. He also extended gratitude to Guerot, as well as the members of the public, police officers, and first responders who played heroic roles in protecting others.
Albanese, in various interviews, emphasized the need for Australia to intensify its efforts to protect women following the Bondi Junction attack. The New South Wales police are investigating whether Cauchi specifically targeted women and children. Albanese stressed that women should feel safe while engaging in everyday activities and highlighted the alarming incidence of domestic violence in Australia. He urged for a collective commitment to combating this societal issue.
When asked about the potential classification of violence motivated by misogyny as terrorism, Albanese declined to engage in a “definitional debate.” He labeled the Bondi Junction attack as “completely unacceptable” and “horrific,” while highlighting the ongoing investigation into the attacker’s motivation. Albanese firmly stated that every Australian, including men, has a responsibility to address violence against women. He emphasized the need for behavioral change within the male population and advocated for a society where women do not feel compelled to modify their actions or fear walking alone at night.
