Vandalism Strikes Melbourne War Memorials Ahead of Anzac Day

Multiple war memorials and historical monuments in Melbourne were vandalized during the week of April 24, 2025, ahead of Anzac Day. Victoria Police are investigating separate incidents involving graffiti and structural damage across at least two locations.

Port Melbourne Incident

Timeline

On the night of Thursday, April 24, 2025, two war memorials in Port Melbourne, Victoria, were vandalized:

• The 'Answering The Call' statue had the words "no war 4 aus" painted at its base.
• The Centenary Bridge pylon was defaced with the words "no warships."
• A fence near a local development site was painted with "US Empire = Death."

Response

Victoria Police confirmed that South Melbourne Police are investigating the graffiti, which occurred between Thursday and Friday. The graffiti has since been removed.

Context

The 'Answering The Call' statue commemorates Australian sailors who served in war and peacetime. This incident follows similar attacks on memorials in Caulfield, Eltham, and Flagstaff Gardens in recent months.

Flagstaff Gardens Incident

Timeline

Separately, between 10 PM on Wednesday and 6 AM on Thursday (April 23-24), two monuments in Melbourne's Flagstaff Gardens were vandalized:

• The Pioneer Monument, erected in 1871 to commemorate early colonists, was discovered in pieces. Authorities suspect machinery was used to dismantle it. The words "death to 'Australia'" were graffitied at its base.
• The Separation Memorial, established in 1950 to mark the 100th anniversary of the Victorian Government's proclamation, was graffitied with "land back" but remained intact.
• Both vandalized monuments displayed red triangles.

Response

Victoria Police are conducting an investigation into the incidents.

Statements

Melbourne Lord Mayor Nick Reece issued a statement indicating that damage to city assets will not be tolerated, and additional security measures are being implemented. He stated that taxpayers ultimately bear the cost of repairs.

Context

The vandalism and destruction of statues and memorials associated with colonialism have increased in frequency, particularly preceding Australia Day on January 26. Previous targets have included a memorial to John Batman and an Anzac memorial in 2024.

Statements from Elected Officials

Opposition Leader Jess Wilson stated: "War memorials are sacred places of reflection that deserve to be properly protected."

Earlier in the week, the Victorian coalition announced intentions to introduce tougher laws for vandalizing war memorials and cultural sites, including penalties of up to 10 years imprisonment and mandatory payment for damages.

Call for Information

Victoria Police urge anyone with information or dashcam/CCTV footage to contact Crime Stoppers (1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au).