MELBOURNE, 9 November 2026: The Liberal and Labor parties have condemned an alleged act of vandalism at the SMVS Swaminarayan Temple in Tarneit, just one week before Diwali and on Sunday, 8 November 2026.
Labor said it condemns the break-in “in the strongest terms” and that community safety is its top priority. The party recently announced an $11 million safety fund for temples and gurdwaras across Victoria. It has also committed $200,000 to the SMVS Swaminarayan Temple to upgrade security at the place of worship. Labor said it stands with Victoria’s Indian and Hindu communities.
In a statement, Shadow Multicultural Minister Evan Mulholland MP said:
“I stand with Melbourne’s Hindu community and the SMVS Swaminarayan Temple in Tarneit after another act of damage and vandalism at their Mount Cottrell premises — twice in one week before Diwali celebrations on Sunday.
Last Saturday, the temple’s power was cut. The community paid thousands of dollars to have it reconnected. Last night, vandals returned and cut power again from the main board. With no way to fix it before Sunday, families who had been preparing for one of the most important festivals of the year have been left in fear and concern for their safety.”
Similar incidents have happened earlier also. Statement from Victoria Police is awaited.
