Anthony of Alban condemned the suspicious fire a Melbourne synagogue as a “deliberate, unlawful attack”, saying those responsible “must face the full force of the law”.
A large fire broke out at the Israel Adass Synagogue in Ripponleaa on Friday morning and is being treated as suspicious by the police.
About 60 firefighters and 17 trucks were called to the synagogue at about 4.18am.
In a statement, the prime minister said he “unequivocally” condemned the attack.
“I have no tolerance for antisemitism. It has absolutely no place in Australia. This violence and terror and destruction at a place of worship is an atrocity,” said Albanese.
“This attack has come to life and is clearly intended to create fear in the community.”
Albanese said he had been briefed by representatives of the Australian Federal Police about the incident and had provided assistance to Victorian state authorities.
“This is a deliberate, illegitimate attack against everything we have as Australians, and everything we have worked so hard to build a nation for,” he said.
Fire Rescue Victoria chief fire officer Brayden Sinnamon said the building was “fully involved” in the fire and crews were deployed.
He said two people died with minor injuries but no other property was damaged.
The fire was ruled suspicious when Victoria made a police inquiry.
The federal education minister, Jason Clare, said it was “pretty clear” the fire was started intentionally.
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“This is a deliberate act of violence, an attack on a place of worship, and let’s go and call it out,” the 7 News Ortus program said.
“This is the absolute opposite of what Australia is all about.”
Liberal frontbencher Sussan Ley said the incident was “very, very concerning”, adding: “It makes me feel quite sick to my stomach.”
“I feel the Jewish community is waking up to this news today.”
Officers have asked anyone who witnessed the incident to come forward with information or CCTV/CCTV footage.