Shree Swaminarayan Temple in Australia has been defaced with hate graffiti, as per a report by The Australia Today. The temple is located on Wadhurst Drive, and the incident happened on July 21. The graffiti, which has angered people, read, “Go home, brown….” A similar graffiti was also painted in red on two nearby Asian‑run restaurants.
‘It’s like an attack on our identity’
Makrand Bhagwat, who is the President of the Hindu Council of Australia, Victoria chapter, expressed shock over the incident. He said that the sacred site is a sanctuary of peace and unity, and it was heartbreaking for him to see it.
“Our temple is meant to be a sanctuary of peace, devotion and unity,” he was quoted by The Australia Today as saying.
He added, “Seeing it vandalised with hateful words was heartbreaking for volunteers and worshippers alike. It’s where we come together to celebrate our faith and heritage. To have it targeted in this way feels like an attack on our identity, our right to worship and freedom of religion,” he further told the publication.
‘Full support of our government’
Premier of Victoria, Jacinta Allan, has not yet issued a public statement on the incident. However, her office has sent a message from her to the temple management.
“The Shree Swaminarayan Temple is so much more than a place of worship – it’s a place of warmth and community. It’s a space where people are welcomed with open arms. Where faith is practised, traditions are honoured, and the values of kindness and compassion are lived every single day,” the message read.
It further added that the incident was filled with “hate”, it was steeped in “racism”, and that it is “deeply disturbing”. She also said that the vandalism aimed at intimidating the community and spreading fear.
The letter also stated that the Victoria Police is seriously investigating the matter and that the Minister for Multicultural Affairs will soon visit the temple to not only offer support but also to listen to the community directly.
“You carry with you the full support of our government. We stand beside you, with respect and unwavering support,” it stated.