MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — A 34-year-old man from Toongabbie, in western Sydney, was arrested in Melbourne’s central business district on Saturday evening in connection with a recent fire at a synagogue. The arrest took place at approximately 8:15 p.m. and was carried out by the Joint Counter Terrorism Team.
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Authorities have charged the man with multiple offenses, including reckless conduct endangering life, reckless conduct endangering serious injury, criminal damage by fire, and possession of a controlled weapon. He is scheduled to appear before the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Sunday.
The arrest followed the release of a public image by police on Saturday seeking assistance in identifying a person of interest.
In a statement outside the affected synagogue on Sunday morning, Australia’s Minister for Home Affairs Tony Burke reaffirmed the government’s commitment to public safety and social harmony.
“This government has taken strong action to combat hate speech and incitement to violence,” Burke said. “The responsibility to stand against antisemitism belongs to all of us.”
Burke described the synagogue incident as deeply troubling and emphasized the importance of safeguarding all communities in Australia. “Every person should feel safe in any place of worship or public setting,” he said. “Hatred and division have no place in Australian life.”
He noted that Victoria Police is leading the ongoing investigation, with continued support from national security agencies including ASIO and the Australian Federal Police.
Authorities have also responded to a protest that took place near an Israeli restaurant in Melbourne’s Hardware Lane. The event was peaceful and monitored by local law enforcement.
Investigations into the separate incidents continue.
My joint statement with Minister Anne Aly on the Melbourne synagogue attack. pic.twitter.com/hkflXauOqe
— Tony Burke (@Tony_Burke) July 5, 2025