Victoria’s Premier Jacinta Allan has publicly condemned the recent acts of racist vandalism in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs, calling them “shameful and cruel” and reaffirming her government’s commitment to protecting all communities across the state.
“Racism and acts of hate have no place in our state,” she said in a statement issued following reports that the Shree Swaminarayan Temple in Boronia and two local restaurants, including Kingsland Chinese Restaurant and a Thai eatery, were targeted in a spate of hate-motivated attacks.
“To deface a temple, to attack a local family business—it is shameful and cruel. And I won’t stand for it in Victoria,” the Premier said.
The Boronia incidents, which occurred between 21 and 22 July, are being investigated by Victoria Police as linked hate crimes. Slogans like “go home” were spray-painted across places of worship and food businesses, sparking anger and concern within Melbourne’s Indian and broader Asian communities.
Community groups have responded swiftly. Religious leaders, multicultural organisations and opposition MPs alike have spoken out, calling for calm and accountability. Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs Evan Mulholland described the temple attack as a “sickening act targeting a peaceful community,” while faith leaders urged a united front against hate-driven behaviour.
Premier Allan made special mention of the restaurants affected. “To the Thai restaurant and Kingsland Chinese Restaurant: Keep the wok fired up. Your work, your culture and your delicious dishes are part of Victoria’s social fabric,” she said.
She added, “No community should ever have to endure hateful acts like this… I’ll always be proud of our state’s multicultural story.”
The Shree Swaminarayan Temple has since resumed regular services, supported by neighbours, interfaith groups and local leaders who have helped clean up and stand in solidarity with the congregation. Flowers and messages have been placed outside the building in recent days, a quiet rejection of the message scrawled in red paint.
Across social media, Victorians have been sharing photos of community events held at the temple and the affected restaurants in better times. Many echo the Premier’s sentiment that these institutions are part of the state’s everyday rhythm—places of gathering, not division.
With ongoing police inquiries and a rising number of statements from all sides of politics, the hope for many now is that swift arrests will send a clear message. Those responsible may have hoped to intimidate, but the broader response from Victoria shows something else entirely—a community unwilling to be rattled, and quick to rise in defence of its diversity.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
