Six people killed in mass stabbing, attacker shot dead

* Six people have been killed in a Sydney stabbing

* The attacker was shot dead by police

* The incident took place inside a shopping centre at Bondi Junction soon after 3pm on Saturday

* The man engaged nine people, stabbing them with a knife

* Police said the man acted alone and there was no ongoing threat to the community

* A senior police officer was on the scene and shot the attacker after he refused to drop his weapon

* The inspector's immediate actions were believed to have saved many lives

* Eight patients were taken to hospital, with one dying from their injuries

* Several people were in a serious condition including a small child

* Police said their investigation would be lengthy and precise

* They praised the bravery of bystanders who rushed to the aid of stab victims

* Witnesses described their horror and fear as the stabbing attack unfolded

* Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the horrific act of violence was beyond words or understanding

* Australian Federal Police members were deployed to the crime scene to assist NSW police

* AFP Commissioner Reece Kershaw said it was too early to determine a motive and it would be unhelpful to speculate

Australian Associated Press