Key facts
- An anti-weapons protest involving vandalism and arson at Lovitt Technologies is being investigated as a potential act of terrorism.
Australian police are investigating an anti-weapons protest that vandalized a defense manufacturer and set vehicles alight as a potential act of terrorism by "far-left extremists." Those responsible could face life imprisonment if convicted.
The investigation elevates a protest to a potential act of terrorism, signaling a serious escalation in domestic extremism and potentially impacting defense supply chains and international relations.
An anti-weapons protest that resulted in vandalism and arson at a Melbourne defense manufacturer is now being investigated as a potential act of terrorism by "far-left extremists," authorities announced.
Australian federal police, their Victorian counterparts, and the spy agency Asio are examining the incident at Lovitt Technologies on July 5, 2025. A joint statement indicated the perpetrators may be motivated by anarchist and revolutionary ideologies.
AFP detective superintendent Anthony Hall warned that those convicted could face life imprisonment. "We clearly have some information about these alleged offenders and are focused on identifying who they are," Hall stated. "The AFP, together with our partners, will not tolerate acts of terror motivated by extremist ideologies aiming to cause fear and anguish in our community."
Members of the group, wearing black hoodies, backpacks, and gloves, claimed responsibility for the attack in an online video. The video also provided instructions on creating incendiary devices and voiced opposition to the government. In a separate video, a person claiming to represent an "anonymous cell" expressed support for Palestine and stated Lovitt Technologies was targeted for its role in the global F-35 joint strike fighter program, which is used by the Israeli military.
"This was not an accident nor thoughtless vandalism," the digitally altered voice in the video said. "If you continue making weapons components of any kind, there will be consequences."
Lovitt Technologies supplies parts for the F-35 program, a supply chain that has faced political debate in Australia and legal challenges in the UK. Victoria police's Acting Superintendent Anthony Wheatfill emphasized that all companies and their employees have a right to conduct business safely, calling the violent methods used to express a viewpoint unacceptable.
Authorities are seeking community assistance, including dashcam footage, from anyone with knowledge of the offenders, who reportedly fled the scene on ebikes.