Man Charged for Setting Fire to Melbourne Synagogue in Shocking Attack

Post by : Priya

  Photo:AP

On an early morning in December 2024, a shocking act of violence struck at the heart of Melbourne’s Jewish community. The Adass Israel Synagogue in Ripponlea, a place of worship and community for decades, was deliberately set on fire by masked attackers, leaving the building badly damaged and a community shaken to its core.This appalling attack, now under intense investigation, has raised deep concerns about hate crimes, political extremism, and community safety—not only in Australia but worldwide.

The Event: What Happened on December 6, 2024

At approximately 4:10 am on December 6, two masked men entered the synagogue. Australian authorities say they carried flammable liquid, which they poured across the synagogue’s floor and spread around using a broom. They were disturbed by a congregant preparing for a Shabbat meal inside, yet they still managed to ignite the accelerant and flee the scene moments later in a stolen vehicle. The fire spread quickly, causing severe damage to the interior and collapsing part of the roof.

Emergency services responded immediately, with approximately 65 firefighters battling the blaze. Their quick actions prevented the fire from spreading further and saved lives. Fortunately, only one person inside suffered minor burns. The community’s precious Torah scrolls and sacred items were retrieved later that afternoon after the scene was secured.

Investigation and Arrests: A Breakthrough in the Case

For more than seven months following the attack, Australian police, including the Victorian Joint Counter-Terrorism Team (JCTT), have been working tirelessly to identify and arrest those responsible. The JCTT is a specialized team combining state and federal police resources with Australia’s top domestic intelligence agency, dedicating over 50,000 investigative hours.

In July 2025, a 21-year-old man from Werribee, a suburb in Melbourne’s west, was arrested. Authorities allege he is one of three individuals involved in the arson attack. Charges being considered include arson, conduct endangering life, and theft of a motor vehicle (the car used in the attack). The accused is yet to be formally charged but faces serious penalties if convicted—up to 15 years for arson, and up to 10 years each for the other offenses.

Police Deputy Commissioner Wendy Steendam expressed ongoing commitment to uncovering all suspects, emphasizing that further arrests are expected. Australian Federal Police Deputy Commissioner Krissy Barrett revealed that authorities suspect connections between local and overseas criminals in the attack, with international intelligence agencies cooperatively involved. This joint effort taps into the power of the Five Eyes alliance, linking Australia with the US, UK, Canada, and New Zealand to bring criminals to justice.

 Rising Antisemitism and Political Motivations

The arson attack did not happen in isolation. Since October 7, 2023, when a war began in Gaza following a Hamas assault on Israel, Australia, like many countries, has seen a surge in antisemitic incidents. The Adass Israel Synagogue fire is notable for being classified as an act of terrorism—highlighting the politically motivated nature of the crime.

Community leaders and government officials have condemned the attack strongly. Victoria’s Premier Jacinta Allan called it an "evil antisemitic attack" and pledged immediate funding for the synagogue’s rebuilding. At the federal level, support has also been promised, with millions of Australian dollars allocated to help recover from this devastating event.

Jewish community organizations have voiced their alarm at the rise of hate crimes and urged the government for stronger protective measures. They decry not only the damage to their places of worship but also the atmosphere of fear these crimes create within their community.

Community Impact and Resilience

The attack deeply affected Melbourne’s Jewish population but also strengthened their resolve. Members of the synagogue and the wider community have rallied in support, organizing vigils, security improvements, and public calls for tolerance and understanding.

The willingness of emergency services, law enforcement, and government officials to engage directly with the community has helped rebuild trust. Yet, many remain vigilant, acknowledging that such hate crimes can never be taken lightly.

Melbourne synagogue fire