Official announcements from the Victorian Government or Australian news outlets

Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne Torched in Suspected Arson; PM Albanese Condemns Antisemitic Attack

Dec 5, 2024, 11:14 PM

A synagogue in Melbourne sustained significant damage in a suspected arson attack early Friday morning, leaving two worshippers injured. Witnesses reported that masked individuals knocked on the door of the Adass Israel Synagogue in Ripponlea before pouring petrol around the entrance and igniting the fire. Over 60 firefighters responded to the blaze, which was extinguished within an hour. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the attack as an act of antisemitism, stating, "I have zero tolerance for antisemitism. It has absolutely no place in Australia." The Victorian Government has pledged $100,000 to assist in rebuilding the synagogue. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, with no suspects currently in custody.