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This article is based on reporting by the ABC, including analysis by journalist Michael Li and advice from Australian National Security and former ADF commando and Victoria Police officer Nathan Mullins.
Recent acts of mass violence in Australia and overseas have left many people asking a difficult but important question: What should I do if violence suddenly breaks out around me?
The deadly shooting at Bondi Beach during a Hanukkah celebration in December shocked the nation. Fifteen people were killed and dozens injured when two attackers opened fire during a community event. In the days surrounding the attack, similar incidents unfolded overseas including a shooting at a university in the United States and a knife and smoke-bomb attack near a busy train station in Taiwan.
While such events remain rare in Australia, experts told the ABC that being mentally prepared, even briefly, can significantly improve a person’s chances of survival.
The first rule: get away, fast
According to former Australian Defence Force commando and Victoria Police officer Nathan Mullins, the most important action during a violent attack is to escape as quickly as possible.
“As soon as you hear gunshots or sense serious danger, assume it’s real and leave the area immediately,” he said in the ABC report.
Australian National Security (ANS) advice echoes this: move quickly and quietly away from danger if a safe route is available. Take your phone only if it’s easy to reach, leave belongings behind, and don’t hesitate. You can encourage others to come with you, but not if it slows you down or increases risk.
Mr Mullins said people should move in a way that puts distance and obstacles between themselves and the attacker.
“Anything you can place between you and violence is a good thing,” he said.
On beaches, streets or in public places, trees, cars, signs, benches and bins can help by blocking an attacker’s line of sight, even if they are not bulletproof.
Don’t freeze and don’t watch
One of the biggest dangers, experts say, is doing nothing at all.
“People sometimes stay because they want to watch what’s happening,” Mr Mullins told the ABC. “But as soon as something feels dangerous people yelling, running, chaos you should leave immediately.”
Another mistake is trying to protect yourself with personal items such as bags or clothing. These offer little real protection and can slow escape.
“There’s nothing you can carry that will make a meaningful difference,” Mr Mullins said. “The best thing you can do is leave.”
If you can’t escape, hide wisely
If getting away isn’t possible, hiding may be the next safest option.
ANS guidance recommends staying completely out of sight, silencing your phone, and avoiding glass. Thick concrete walls provide the best protection, but even opaque objects that block visibility can reduce risk.
“Attackers usually have limited time,” Mr Mullins said. “If they can’t see a target, they often move on.”
Cars can also provide some protection if no better option exists. While vehicles are not bulletproof, many parts can slow or deflect bullets and may offer critical moments to move to safer cover.
Stay calm and be mentally prepared
Experts told the ABC that mental preparedness simply being aware that violence could occur can make a real difference.
“It can be hard to imagine something like this happening, but giving it some thought helps,” Mr Mullins said. “You can plan escape routes in advance and assess your surroundings.”
Crowded places, large events or locations that have been targeted before may warrant extra awareness, even if the risk is low.
“The more thought you put in, the safer you will be,” he said.
Who to call
If you are in immediate danger and it is safe to do so, call Triple Zero (000).
If you notice suspicious behaviour or believe someone may pose a threat to the community, you can contact the National Security Hotline on 1800 123 400.
A difficult topic and an important one
No one wants to imagine being caught up in a violent attack. But as recent events have shown, understanding how to respond, escaping quickly, hiding effectively if needed, and not freezing can save lives.
As the ABC reporting makes clear, preparation doesn’t mean living in fear. It means knowing how to act if the unthinkable happens and giving yourself the best possible chance to get home safely.
