On December 14th at Bondi, NSW, Mr Ahmed al Ahmed, unarmed and acting entirely on his own initiative, confronted an armed gunman in the midst of a terrorist attack which claimed 12 lives and wounded 29 other victims. With complete disregard for his own safety, he succeeded in disarming the attacker, who fled the scene without the rifle used in the assaults.

Throughout the entire ordeal, while Mr al Ahmed acted selflessly to protect those around him, he remained exposed to—and came under—active gunfire from a second terrorist positioned on a nearby footbridge. Despite this extreme peril, he persisted with remarkable courage and determination.

By these selfless actions, undertaken at grave personal risk, Mr Ahmed al Ahmed demonstrated the finest qualities upheld by Australia as a nation and cherished by Australians as a people. His conduct stands as an outstanding example of bravery, moral resolve, and service to others.

His exemplary courage makes him an exceptional and inspirational candidate for the honour of the Cross of Valour.