MELBOURNE, Australia, July 5, 2025 – Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has strongly condemned an arson attack on the East Melbourne Hebrew Congregation synagogue, labeling it a “cowardly” act of violence and antisemitism that has no place in Australian society. The incident, which occurred on the evening of July 4, 2025, has intensified concerns about the safety of Jewish communities in Melbourne, a city already grappling with a series of antisemitic incidents.
The attack took place during Shabbat services, with approximately 20 people inside the synagogue forced to evacuate through a rear exit as a man allegedly poured a flammable liquid on the front door and set it alight. No injuries were reported, but the event has been described as deeply traumatic by community leaders. Simultaneously, an Israeli-owned restaurant in downtown Melbourne was stormed by around 20 masked protesters chanting “Death to the IDF,” further escalating tensions in the city.
This arson attack marks the second such incident targeting a Melbourne synagogue within a year, following a previous firebombing that remains unsolved. The recurrence of these events has prompted widespread condemnation from political figures and the public alike. Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan called the act “absolutely appalling,” while federal opposition leader Sussan Ley described it as “horrifying” and unacceptable. The Israeli foreign affairs minister, Gideon Sa’ar, also expressed solidarity, condemning the “vile antisemitic attacks” on social media.
Prime Minister Albanese, in a video statement shared on X, emphasized the need for justice, stating, “It is to be hoped that the perpetrator is brought to justice urgently and that he faces the full force of the law.” He reiterated Australia’s commitment to protecting the rights of all citizens to practice their faith in peace and harmony, asserting, “Australians have every right to be able to conduct their faith, to engage with each other in peace and harmony. That is the Australia that we cherish.”
The backdrop to these incidents includes ongoing debates about immigration policies, with critics linking the rise in antisemitic activities to the government’s handling of visa programs for individuals from conflict zones. This perspective has been voiced amidst a global context of increasing antisemitism, particularly since the onset of the Israel-Gaza conflict in late 2023, which has seen a surge in hate crimes against Jewish communities worldwide.
Authorities are actively investigating both the synagogue arson and the restaurant assault, with police seeking CCTV footage and witnesses to aid in identifying the perpetrators. The community remains on high alert, with Jewish organizations calling for increased security measures and a unified stand against hate. As Melbourne navigates these challenges, the national conversation continues to focus on fostering inclusivity and ensuring the safety of all Australians, regardless of their background.