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New Delhi: An Indian origin cab driver from Hyderabad who risked his life to rescue nearly 20 people during the deadly Bondi Beach shooting in Sydney has been granted Australian permanent residency in recognition of his bravery, as reported by Times of India. The person was identified as Rehmat Pasha ,37, and is being hailed as a hero for helping injured victims reach safety despite coming under direct threat during the attack.

Pasha emerged as an unlikely hero during the December 14, 2025, shooting, which claimed at least 15 lives. As panic gripped Bondi Beach, he reportedly ran towards the danger instead of away from it, helping seriously injured victims reach waiting ambulances while dodging gunfire.

His actions are believed to have saved between 18 and 20 lives. Even after the immediate danger had passed, Pasha stayed behind to comfort traumatized visitors and assist emergency responders as they evacuated the area.

In recognition of his courage, Australian authorities granted him permanent residency. Applications for permanent residency for his wife and three children are also being processed.

The cap he wore during the rescue operation will also be displayed at the Sydney Museum, while he has been nominated for multiple bravery awards.

Although Pasha has been recognized for his heroism, he says the memories of the attack continue to haunt him.

Speaking during a recent visit to Hyderabad, he revealed that he was diagnosed with severe post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after the shooting and was temporarily declared unfit to work. He said he still struggles with recurring nightmares, often waking up after only a few hours of sleep to the sound of imagined ambulance sirens and memories of blood-soaked victims and frightened children.

Despite his own trauma, Pasha remains in contact with many of the survivors and continues to attend prayer meetings with them, offering support as they recover from the tragedy.

The Bondi Beach shooting on December 14, 2025, left at least 15 people dead and several others injured, making it one of Australia’s deadliest attacks in recent years. The incident also made headlines after a father and son from Hyderabad were named among the key accused.

Amid the chaos, Pasha’s selfless actions stood out, earning him widespread recognition across Australia and India. His permanent residency is being seen as an acknowledgement of the courage he displayed while helping strangers during one of the country’s darkest moments.

Curated By: Eshna Dhawan