First Anniversary of the Bali Bombings - 1 October 2005

Today marks the first anniversary of the terrorist bombings in Bali on 1 October 2005. These tragic bombings took 20 innocent lives - including four Australians - and injured 100 people. The majority of victims were Indonesian citizens. My thoughts are with the families and friends of those who lost loved ones in that callous attack and to those who were injured.

The horrific attacks in Bali were committed by terrorists who preach an ideology of hatred. This has no place in either Australia or Indonesia. Indonesia has a strong record of successfully convicting terrorists and I welcome the conviction of four individuals last month for their role in the 2005 Bali bombings.

Australia and Indonesia are committed to continuing close cooperation to eradicate the terrorist scourge and to uphold the values of democracy, pluralism and tolerance.

A memorial service organised by the Australian Consulate-General, Bali, will be held in Bali on 1 October 2006 to mark the first anniversary. A memorial service will also be held in Bali on 12 October 2006 to commemorate the fourth anniversary of the 12 October 2002 bombings.

Media Inquiries: Mr Downer's office 02 6277 7500 - Departmental Media Liaison 02 6261 1555