Melbourne, July 21:
In a deeply disturbing act of racism and religious intolerance, the Shree Swaminarayan Temple in Boronia, Melbourne, was defaced with hateful graffiti, including the slur “Go Home Brown C**t,” on July 21. The same offensive message also appeared on the walls of two Asian-run restaurants in the vicinity, sparking outrage and concern across Australia’s multicultural communities.
The attack, which took place overnight, targeted not only a sacred place of worship but also local businesses operated by members of the Asian and Indian communities. According to The Australia Today, a healing centre in nearby Bayswater was also vandalised in what police believe are “linked incidents.”
Makrand Bhagwat, President of the Hindu Council of Australia, expressed heartbreak and disbelief following the attack.
“Seeing our temple vandalised with hateful words was heartbreaking for volunteers and worshippers alike,” he said. “Our temple is meant to be a sanctuary of peace, devotion and unity. It’s where we come together to celebrate our faith and heritage.”
The temple regularly draws worshippers from across Melbourne and is a hub for cultural, spiritual, and community events, including daily prayers, festivals, and communal meals.
Victoria Premier Jacinta Allan condemned the incident in a strong statement, labelling it “hateful, racist, and deeply disturbing.”
“It wasn’t just vandalism — it was a deliberate act of hate, designed to intimidate, isolate, and spread fear. There’s no place for it anywhere in Victoria,” Allan said. “As Premier, I want you to know how much your contribution, your culture, and your faith mean to me, and to the future we’re building together in this state.”
She confirmed that the state’s Minister for Multicultural Affairs would soon visit the temple to meet with community members and offer government support.
Victoria Police have launched an investigation into four linked graffiti incidents in the Boronia and Bayswater areas.
“Police are investigating following reports of graffiti in Bayswater and Boronia on July 21. It is understood graffiti was spray-painted on the front of a healing centre on the Mountain Highway overnight. Shortly after, graffiti was discovered on a temple on Wadhurst Drive in Boronia at about 9:30 am. Two further restaurants were located with graffiti on Boronia Road,” police told The Australia Today.
Community leaders and organisations across Australia have rallied in support of Melbourne’s Hindu community, calling for unity, vigilance, and stronger protections for places of worship.
This latest incident is a stark reminder of the need for ongoing dialogue, education, and enforcement to combat rising racism and xenophobia in multicultural societies.
