Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has strongly condemned an arson attack on a synagogue in Melbourne, describing it as a “cowardly” and “antisemitic” act that has no place in Australian society. The incident occurred on Friday night in East Melbourne as about 20 worshippers gathered for a Shabbat dinner inside the synagogue.
According to police, an unidentified man approached the synagogue and set its front door ablaze while those inside observed the Jewish day of rest. Fortunately, the worshippers managed to escape safely through a rear exit before emergency services arrived and quickly extinguished the fire. No injuries were reported.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Prime Minister Albanese expressed his outrage over the incident. “Last night’s arson attack on the synagogue in east Melbourne is cowardly, is an act of violence and antisemitism, and has no place in Australian society,” he said. He also called for swift justice, urging authorities to ensure that the perpetrator and any accomplices face the full force of the law.
Victoria Police are currently investigating the attack and examining the motive behind it. Authorities have confirmed they are exploring the “intent and ideology” of the arsonist, suggesting the crime may be ideologically motivated. No arrests have been made so far.
This is not the first time Melbourne’s Jewish community has been targeted. In December last year, masked individuals firebombed another synagogue in the city, raising serious concerns about a surge in antisemitic crimes. That attack prompted the federal government to establish a dedicated task force to tackle rising antisemitism and improve community safety.
Jewish communities in both Melbourne and Sydney have been reporting increased vandalism and harassment in recent months, with many calling for greater protection and tougher responses to hate crimes.
Community leaders have praised the swift response of emergency services and echoed the Prime Minister’s sentiments, demanding a thorough investigation and robust action against those responsible.
As investigations continue, Jewish Australians and their allies are calling for unity, resilience, and a reaffirmation of the nation’s commitment to religious tolerance and multiculturalism.
