Ripponlea car attack sparks alarm as Jewish leaders warn of rising antisemitism
Jewish leaders in Melbourne have condemned an alleged antisemitic car attack in Ripponlea, warning it reflects a pattern of increasingly bold incidents targeting the community.
Victoria Police are investigating after a group of Jewish men were allegedly targeted on Glen Eira Road on Saturday evening, when a vehicle swerved towards them while antisemitic abuse was shouted from inside.
The black Hyundai reportedly involved in the incident (screenshot: AJA Facebook)
The Community Security Group Victoria confirmed the incident in a statement on social media.
“This evening, CSG Victoria responded to an incident on Glen Eira Road, Ripponlea, where a vehicle swerved towards community members while occupants shouted antisemitic remarks,” the organisation said.
They also stated that Victoria Police patrols were active in the area and responded to the scene rapidly, and there were no reports of physical injuries.
“CSG is liaising closely with police and continuing to monitor the situation,” they confirmed.
The group added that increased security patrols may be visible and urged residents to take precautions, including remaining vigilant, avoiding confrontation, and reporting suspicious behaviour through JEAP or calling 000 in an emergency.
Police are searching for four female suspects, believed to have been travelling in a stolen black Hyundai sedan taken from Caulfield on March 25. The group was forced to take evasive action. No arrests have been made, and police have appealed for witnesses and dashcam footage from the Glen Eira Road area.
The incident prompted strong condemnation from communal leaders.
Jewish Community Council of Victoria chief executive Naomi Levin told ‘The Australian’ that perpetrators of anti-Jewish hate were acting with growing confidence.
“Those responsible are brazen, bold and appear to act with impunity,” she said, calling for a swift investigation and accountability.
The incident follows a similar attack in St Kilda East in January, when a group of Jewish teenagers were allegedly chased by the occupants of a white ute, who shouted “Heil Hitler” and threatened them.
The alleged attack coincides with the release of the latest Victorian antisemitism report by the JCCV and CSG, which recorded 564 incidents in 2025, the highest number on record.
Ripponlea, home to a significant Jewish population, has also been the focus of previous incidents, including the firebombing of Adass Israel Synagogue in December 2024.
