This is a joint release between the Australian Federal Police, Victoria Police and the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation.
Please note: Vision and stills of the arrest and operational activity are available via Hightail.
The Victorian Joint Counter Terrorism Team (JCTT) has arrested a man over his alleged role in the arson that severely damaged the Adass Israel Synagogue in December 2024.
The Werribee man, 21, will be interviewed in relation to the offences of arson under section 197 (1) (6) of the Crimes Act 1958 (Vic), conduct endangering life arson under section 22 of the Crimes Act 1958 (Vic)and theft of motor vehicle under section 74 of the Crimes Act 1958 (Vic).
The offence of arson carries a maximum penalty of 15 years' imprisonment, while the offence of theft of motor vehicle and conduct endangering life both carry a maximum penalty of 10 years' imprisonment.
It will be alleged the man is one of three individuals who broke into the Ripponlea synagogue and set the fire. Further arrests and charges are expected soon.
JCTT investigators, with assistance from Victoria Police Special Operations Group and AFP Tactical Response, executed seven search warrants at Point Cook, Toorak, Airport West, Hadfield, Werribee, Weir Views, and Coburg today (Wednesday, 30 July, 2025).
Various items, including electronic devices, were seized and will be forensically examined.
On 16 July, 2024, the JCTT charged another person for allegedly stealing a communal crime car, which is alleged to have been used to drive to the synagogue on 6 December, 2024.
Victoria Police Deputy Commissioner Wendy Steendam said today's arrest is a significant step forward in the investigation, and is testament to the commitment across all agencies to hold those involved in this incident to account.
"Since the fire occurred on 6 December last year, the investigation has been one of the highest priorities for Victoria Police and the JCTT.
"Today's arrest is a demonstration of our ongoing efforts to hold those involved to account. We now have charged two people as part of this investigation and I expect there will be more to come.
"What has also been clear to us throughout this investigation is that assistance from the public is absolutely crucial and without that assistance, the investigation would not be where it is today.
"We know there are people out there with information that will progress this investigation - whether that is people we have already spoken to or others who are yet to come forward.
"Again, I appeal for those people to contact police. If you have any details at all about those involved and their motivation, then we want to hear from you. Even the smallest detail or piece of information could prove crucial.
"I want to reassure people that Victoria Police will continue to work with our law enforcement partners including the AFP and ASIO to do everything we can to bring this investigation to a successful conclusion as soon as possible."
Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Mike Bush said Victoria Police would be relentless in pursuing and holding those involved in this crime to account.
"Victoria Police has seen first-hand the impact this incident has had in the Victorian community - the fear and distress a crime like this can cause.
"People deserve to be safe and feel safe, particularly when it comes to their places of worship. This is not negotiable in any way. We remain committed to identifying all those who seek to cause this kind of fear and harm, and ensuring they are brought to justice."
AFP Deputy Commissioner National Security Krissy Barrett said the investigation remains a priority for all agencies, with the JCTT and a range of specialist resources working tirelessly since last December.
"The gravity of this crime has not been lessened by time, and I can confirm the JCTT continues to investigate the arson attack as a politically-motivated crime," Deputy Commissioner Barrett said.
"We will not let this go unpunished in Australia. And that's why we have responded with relentless determination to pursue those responsible and hold them to account.
"This crime was despicable as it was dangerous, and it is important to acknowledge that this was not just an arson on a synagogue.
"The effect of this crime has rippled through a community that continues to be targeted by criminals. We will not stand for this, and I want to reassure the public that this is not just a priority investigation for the JCTT, but also for the AFP.
"I want to thank the Jewish community across Australia, and in particular, the Adass Israel Synagogue congregation, for their stoicism, patience, and the support they have shown the JCTT."
The JCTT, which includes Victoria Police, AFP and ASIO, continues to regularly engage relevant communities in relation to the status of the investigation.
Anyone with information relevant to the investigation is urged to contact investigators.
Information can be provided by contacting Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au. A confidential report can also be made to the National Security Hotline on 1800 123 400.
AFP Media: (02) 5126 9297
