Thousands of Australians have dug deep to support the heroic police officer who put her life on the line to save countless others during the Bondi Junction Westfield attack, after she was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer.
NSW Police Officer Inspector Amy Scott, widely recognised for her decisive actions during the April 2024 stabbing incident — in which six civilians were killed — is now facing a personal challenge after a career defined by confronting dangerous situations.
During the Bondi Junction attack, Scott moved directly into the scene as shoppers fled, confronting a man armed with a knife and ultimately bringing the attack to an end.
Just 24 hours after the sad update about the hero, more than 5,000 members of the public donated to an appeal in her name, with over $320,000 donated to the cause.
Scott now faces ‘an uphill’ battle as she receives treatment for cancer. Source: NCA Newswire
Her intervention was credited with saving multiple lives and was later recognised with the NSW Police Commissioner’s Valour Award.
Witnesses and colleagues described her response as calm, decisive, and professional under extreme pressure.
Tributes flow for heroic officer Amy Scott after cancer diagnosis
On Monday, NSW Police announced Scott’s sad diagnosis.
“Our beautiful friend and colleague, Inspector Amy Scott, has recently been diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer,” a NSW Police Legacy public notice said.
“Beyond her dedicated service to the community, Amy is a devoted wife, a loving mother of two young boys, and has a family who depend on her and walk this journey beside her every day.
“Amy is widely known as selfless, compassionate, and one of the kindest people you could ever meet. She is every bit the remarkable human you would think.”
The update continued to describe Scott as “fiercely independent and the first to champion others”.
Scott has been a longstanding member of NSW Police, known for her dedication to her work and her colleagues.
NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon offered his support in the wake of the news.
“Amy and her family have been dealing with this diagnosis for some months now, and we want her to know that she is surrounded by the unwavering love and support of the entire NSW Police Force,” he said.
“I also know that the broader community is holding Amy and her family in their thoughts and extend their heartfelt support during this time.
“Despite everything Amy is facing, she continues to show the remarkable person that she is by going out of her way to support her workmates, regularly coming into the station to offer comfort and assistance to those impacted by the recent Bondi terror attack.”
Fundraiser smashes target
Scott’s family are now navigating the challenges of her diagnosis alongside her.
“Whilst she is being well supported by her family, friends and colleagues, Amy has a long uphill battle ahead to beat this insidious disease. Amy now needs the strength, compassion, and support of her community,” the police statement said.
“This is a powerful reminder that even our strongest people are human, and this fundraiser has been created to ease the financial burden for Amy and her family during this incredibly challenging time.”
While she is being supported by family, friends, and colleagues, the diagnosis presents a long-term challenge, and a third-party fundraising effort has been established to assist with the financial pressures associated with treatment.
The fundraiser, which has far exceeded its initial goal of $25,000, and has received contributions from members of the public and the police community.
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