Australia’s political leaders have united in condemning a series of pro-Hamas graffiti incidents in Melbourne’s inner north on the second anniversary of the deadly October 7, 2023 attacks on Israel.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, in a statement marking the anniversary, said the day remained one of “pain and terror for Jewish people around the world” and urged Australians to “never forget the atrocities inflicted by Hamas.”
“The attack on innocent people at a music festival that promoted ‘friends, love and infinite freedom’ underlined a core truth — that Hamas stands in opposition to all humanity,” Albanese said.
“Over 1,200 innocent lives were ruthlessly taken without mercy, including Australian Galit Carbone. We hold Galit and her loved ones in our hearts and continue to call for the hostages still held to be returned immediately and with dignity.”
Albanese reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to combating antisemitism and supporting peace in the Middle East, welcoming US President Donald Trump’s new plan to end the Gaza conflict.
“It is our duty to do everything in our power to see a just and lasting peace — the State of Israel and the State of Palestine living side by side, within internationally recognised borders, in peace and security.”
Opposition Leader Sussan Ley also issued a statement of solidarity, recalling the murder of Australian-born Galit Carbone during the Hamas assault. “Two years ago, Hamas terrorists launched a brutal assault on Israel, murdering families and taking hundreds of hostages,” Ley said.
“To Israel, to survivors, to the Jewish people everywhere — you are not alone.”
The anniversary was overshadowed by incidents of antisemitic vandalism in Fitzroy and Preston. Graffiti reading “Glory to Hamas” and “Oct 7, do it again” appeared on a billboard and nearby buildings along Alexandra Parade, while a banner with “Glory to the martyrs” was seen on a Bell Street overpass in Preston.
Albanese denounced the graffiti as “abhorrent”, saying those responsible “must face the full force of the law.”
Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles described the acts as “disgraceful and deeply offensive”, adding, “This day can only be one thing — a day of commemoration and remembrance.”
“Hamas is a terrorist organisation. Hamas was responsible for the terror attack which occurred two years ago on this day, in which 1200 innocent people lost their lives … a message of that kind scrawled on this day is deeply disgraceful.”
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan said the graffiti “has no place in our great multicultural society,” while Opposition Leader Brad Battin labelled it “disgraceful.” Caulfield MP David Southwick told ABC such messages were “triggering” for members of Melbourne’s Jewish community, calling for stronger enforcement of existing laws.
Executive Council of Australian Jewry co-chief executive Alex Ryvchin told The Age that the graffiti reflected a “vicious streak” in society. “This sort of behaviour has become normalised, and there’s very little legal or social consequence,” he added.
“They want to provoke reaction. They want to turn one group of Australians against another … this sort of behaviour has become routine, and it’s become normalised, and to a large extent, there’s a great impunity that goes with it. There’s very little legal consequences, there’s very little social consequences, and it won’t simply evaporate tomorrow.”
Victoria Police confirmed they are investigating the vandalism, stating, “There is absolutely no place at all in our society for antisemitic or hate-based symbols and behaviour.”
Ley added that supporting Hamas “is not free speech — it is a crime,” urging federal and state authorities to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
“Victorians deserve to feel safe in their own community. Hate has no place on our streets.”
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