Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has condemned an alleged antisemitic attack on five Jewish teenagers in Melbourne’s St Kilda East, calling the incident “beyond disgusting” and saying it has no place in Australia. He acknowledged the teenagers would have been terrified and stressed that the perpetrators must face the law.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has condemned the Incident. (Source: The Australian)
Victoria Premier Jacinta Allan stated that antisemitic behaviour is “absolutely unacceptable” in the state and confirmed that Nazi salutes are illegal under Victorian law. She also signalled plans to strengthen anti-hate legislation when parliament resumes. Federal MP Josh Burns, whose electorate includes the affected area, described the attack as unacceptable and said the community deserves safety and respect.
Incident Details
Victoria Police reported that five teenage boys, aged between 15 and 16, were standing on Glen Eira Road around 9:50 pm on Monday when a white utility vehicle drove past. Occupants allegedly shouted antisemitic abuse, including Nazi slogans, and threatened the teenagers.
The vehicle reportedly stopped a short distance away and circled back toward the boys. CCTV footage shows the ute performing a U-turn and following the group as they fled across the street for safety. Police described the attack as deliberate and frightening for the victims.
Vehicle and Suspect Information
Authorities stated that the white ute had been reported stolen over the weekend and was connected to two aggravated burglaries in the area. Police identified two men believed to have been in the vehicle and continue to investigate their whereabouts.
Victoria Police urged anyone with dashcam or CCTV footage from the area to assist the investigation. Officers confirmed that antisemitic harassment combined with vehicle threats will be treated seriously under the law.
Victim and Family Accounts
Parents described the teenagers as shaken after the incident. One father, Chayim Klein, said his son and friends did not carry mobile phones and had to run to a nearby payphone to contact emergency services.
Families reported that the alleged perpetrators threatened to return, causing increased concern for the teenagers’ safety. Parents emphasised that the boys were ordinary students who had not encountered such harassment before.
Community Leaders Speak
Benjamin Klein, a community leader in Melbourne, called the attack “disgraceful” and said the footage shows the boys being threatened and followed. He urged police to ensure the perpetrators face justice and highlighted the need for protection around schools and synagogues.
Naomi Levin, CEO of the Jewish Community Council of Victoria, confirmed that international conflicts should not be imported into Australia. She called on the public to respect local Jewish communities and stressed the importance of children attending school safely.
Police Safety Measures and Appeals
Victoria Police reiterated their appeal for witnesses to come forward with information. Officers confirmed patrols in the St Kilda East area near schools, synagogues, and community centres have increased to enhance public safety.
Police encouraged residents and parents to report suspicious activity and provide video footage. They also stated they are investigating potential links between this incident and recent thefts and burglaries involving stolen vehicles.
Public Awareness and Social Media
Video footage of the alleged incident circulated on social media, drawing attention and public concern. Police urged responsible sharing to avoid misinformation and requested community cooperation in preserving the integrity of the investigation.
Social media responses included support messages for the teenagers and calls for stricter enforcement of hate-crime laws. Authorities said the online dissemination has helped verify details about the vehicle and possible suspects.
School and Community Impact
The incident occurred near the Adass Israel Synagogue and several local schools, raising concerns about student safety. Local schools reportedly advised parents to accompany children during travel to and from evening activities.
Community leaders noted that the incident increased stress and anxiety among students and families. Police and local authorities confirmed ongoing measures to maintain safety around educational and religious facilities while the investigation continues.
Also Read: AMP Names Blair Vernon CEO as Alexis George Signals Retirement
Ongoing Investigation
Detectives from Victoria Police continue to pursue multiple leads. Officers have identified two people of interest and are actively seeking additional information from the public.
Authorities emphasised that antisemitic harassment and threats, particularly when involving vehicles, will be prosecuted under current laws. Police stated that maintaining visibility in the area and engaging with the community remains a priority.
FAQs
- What is antisemitism?
Antisemitism refers to hostility, prejudice, or discrimination against Jewish people because of their religion, ethnicity, or cultural identity. It can include verbal abuse, threats, harassment, or other targeted actions.
- How can I report an antisemitic incident in Victoria?
If the incident poses immediate danger, contact emergency services. For non-urgent cases, you can report to your local police station or use community reporting channels designed for hate-related incidents.
- What is the difference between a hate crime and a hate incident?
A hate crime is a criminal act motivated by prejudice, meeting legal standards for prosecution. A hate incident may not break the law but involves prejudice-based behaviour and can still be reported to authorities.
- Are Nazi symbols or gestures illegal in Victoria?
Yes. Public use of Nazi symbols or gestures intended to threaten, intimidate, or incite hatred is prohibited and can be reported to police.
- Who can report antisemitic behaviour?
Anyone who witnesses or experiences antisemitic behaviour can report it. You do not need to be the direct target to make a report.
- What support is available after an antisemitic incident?
Community organisations provide assistance, helping victims document incidents, access advocacy, and connect with legal or mental health support services.
- How do authorities respond to antisemitism?
State and federal authorities investigate serious threats or attacks, coordinating with community organisations to enforce laws and protect targeted groups.
