Western Australian authorities are actively investigating a disturbing incident of anti-Semitic vandalism discovered on a wall in Perth's southern suburbs. The graffiti, which included two swastikas and the phrase "kill the Jews," has sparked a significant police response and widespread condemnation from state leaders.
Shocking Discovery in Spearwood
The offensive symbols and text were found spray-painted on a brick wall at the rear of a Vibe service station located on Rockingham Road in Spearwood. A photograph of the defaced wall was circulated by the Australian Jewish Association on Monday, January 5, 2026, bringing the incident to broader public attention.
Police confirmed on Wednesday, January 7, that they had received information from the community and were following active leads. While the exact timing of the vandalism remains unclear, investigators believe the graffiti had been present at the location for some time before its discovery. The affected wall has since been repainted.
Police Vow Zero Tolerance for Hate Crimes
The case is being handled by the State Security Investigation Group's dedicated Hate Team, working alongside local officers. Detective Superintendent Ricky Chadwick of the Security Operations Division issued a strong statement, emphasising that the WA Police Force will not tolerate actions aimed at inciting hatred or division.
"We will not stand by while individuals or groups attempt to divide our community by engaging in crimes driven by hate or prejudice," Superintendent Chadwick said. He highlighted that under Operation Dalewood—a initiative launched on December 15 to enhance community safety and combat anti-Semitism—police are conducting proactive measures to ensure all residents feel secure.
"The State Security Investigation Group remains committed to identifying and prosecuting individuals who engage in racially motivated or extremist conduct," he added. "We will continue to act firmly and without hesitation to protect community harmony and uphold the law."
Political Leaders Condemn 'Appalling' Act
Acting Premier Jackie Jarvis described the Spearwood incident as "appalling" and "the worst of the worst." She stated that such behaviour is completely unacceptable in Western Australia.
Jarvis called for the offender to face the "full weight" of recently strengthened legislation, which mandates penalties of up to five years' imprisonment for the public display of Nazi insignia. "That’s why we’ve toughened up those laws, because it is just appalling behaviour," she remarked on Tuesday.
The launch of Operation Dalewood and the introduction of the tougher laws follow the tragic Bondi Beach massacre, underscoring a heightened focus on preventing hate-fuelled violence and ensuring public safety across the state.
