On the morning of April 10, 2025, the Indian Consulate in Melbourne, located at 344 St Kilda Road, was found defaced with graffiti at its main entrance. The incident, which occurred overnight, has sparked concern among both the Indian-Australian community and broader diplomatic circles.
Victoria Police confirmed the act of vandalism and launched an investigation into the matter. Officers were called to the scene early Thursday morning after reports of graffiti were received.
“Officers believe the front entry of the building was graffitied overnight, sometime between Wednesday 9 and Thursday 10 April,” said a police spokesperson. “An investigation into the damage remains ongoing.”
Official Response from the Indian Consulate
The Indian Consulate-General in Melbourne has confirmed the incident and stated that it has taken all necessary measures to ensure the safety and security of its premises and staff. In a public post on X (formerly Twitter), the Consulate described the incident as a “defacing by miscreants” and said the matter had been promptly raised with Australian authorities.
“All necessary steps are being taken to ensure the safety and security of Indian diplomatic and consular premises and personnel in the country,” the statement read.
This latest act of vandalism follows a string of similar incidents targeting Indian institutions in Australia, further amplifying tensions within the Indian diaspora.
Growing Pattern of Vandalism: Not the First Time
Unfortunately, this isn’t the first time Indian diplomatic or religious institutions have been targeted in Australia. In 2023, Khalistani flags were tied to the Indian Consulate in Brisbane, while several Hindu temples in Melbourne and Canberra were also defaced.
These incidents appear to form part of a worrying trend, often tied to overseas extremist groups, particularly some with separatist Khalistani sympathies. Such acts have sparked widespread condemnation across Australia, India, and internationally.
Community leaders have raised alarms that these targeted attacks are becoming increasingly frequent and emboldened, with perpetrators rarely facing timely consequences.
Community Reactions: Safety and Equality in Focus
Members of the Indian-Australian community have expressed frustration and concern over what they describe as a sluggish response to crimes against their institutions.
“There is a growing feeling that if these attacks were directed at other communities, the response would be more immediate and forceful,” one community member told a local news outlet. “This isn’t about politics—it’s about ensuring safety and respect for every Australian, regardless of their background.”
These sentiments have been echoed online and in community forums, where many are calling for stronger policing, faster investigations, and greater public condemnation of these acts.
Australian Authorities Condemn the Incident
The Australian Government has reiterated its support for multiculturalism and its commitment to safeguarding the rights and safety of all ethnic and religious communities.
Following similar incidents in recent years, Australian leaders—including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese—have pledged to strengthen efforts against hate-based crimes. During his visit to India in 2023, Albanese expressed solidarity with the Indian community and promised increased security measures to protect Indian diplomatic missions and religious centres in Australia.
Police and intelligence agencies are also reportedly stepping up monitoring and cooperation with community groups to ensure these acts of vandalism do not escalate further.
A Diplomatic Concern: India Watches Closely
India’s High Commission in Canberra has taken a serious view of the incident and is reportedly working with both state and federal authorities in Australia. The defacement of a diplomatic mission is not just a criminal matter—it also has international ramifications.
Diplomatic premises are protected under international law, and host countries are responsible for their safety. India has, in recent years, become increasingly vocal in calling for stronger action from countries like Australia, Canada, the US, and the UK, where similar incidents have occurred.
In previous cases, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in New Delhi has lodged formal protests and urged partner nations to take “strong, visible, and public” action against those responsible.
Crackdown on Hate Crimes: A Pledge from Victoria Police
Victoria Police and the State Government have consistently pledged to address and crack down on hate-motivated crimes, particularly those targeting places of faith and diplomacy.
After the April 10 incident, Victoria Police assured the public that the investigation would be thorough and that any individuals or groups involved would be held accountable under Australian law.
“We take all instances of hate-based vandalism seriously,” a spokesperson said. “Such acts do not reflect the values of the Victorian community.”
Multiculturalism Under Threat?
Australia is home to over 700,000 people of Indian origin, making them one of the fastest-growing migrant communities in the country. Indian-Australians have contributed richly to Australia's economy, culture, and society.
However, incidents like the vandalism of the consulate and temples threaten the spirit of multiculturalism that Australia has proudly upheld for decades. They instil fear, create division, and undermine the inclusivity that defines modern Australian society.
Community leaders say it’s crucial that these actions are not normalised or overlooked.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening Unity and Vigilance
As investigations continue, the focus now shifts to justice, accountability, and prevention. The Indian-Australian community continues to advocate for faster response times, more visible policing around cultural sites, and an increased emphasis on education around diversity and respect.
Meanwhile, Australian authorities are working with Indian diplomats to improve communication and crisis response strategies to avoid such incidents in the future.
Conclusion: Standing Together Against Hate
The defacement of the Indian Consulate in Melbourne is not just an attack on a building—it is an attack on values that Australians hold dear: respect, inclusion, and community harmony.
As both India and Australia continue to strengthen their diplomatic ties and people-to-people links, incidents like these must be addressed with zero tolerance and swift action. Only then can all Australians, regardless of origin or faith, feel truly safe and respected.
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Mitchell
Mitchell is a seasoned Ph.D. scholar with extensive expertise gained through years of rigorous research, publication, and teaching experience. He brings a wealth of knowledge and analytical skills to tackle complex academic challenges. His work is dedicated to delivering innovative solutions, advancing knowledge, and promoting academic excellence. Proficient in research methodology, data analysis, and scholarly writing, Mitchell has contributed to peer-reviewed journals and mentored students to achieve academic success.
