Prime Minister Anthony Albanese revealed that some antisemitic attacks in New South Wales and Victoria might have been perpetrated by paid actors rather than individuals driven by ideology.

He emphasized that these paid actors lack any specific ideological motivation for their actions.

Albanese also disclosed that 36 individuals have been charged with antisemitism-related offenses in New South Wales, while 70 arrests occurred in Victoria.

The federal-led Operation Avalite has received 166 reports of antisemitic incidents, with 15 currently under investigation.

On January 22, 2025, New South Wales police charged a man for allegedly attempting to set fire to a synagogue in Newtown earlier this month, with Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke promising more arrests to follow.

AFP Commissioner Reece Kershaw indicated that the investigation is looking into the possibility of overseas actors financing local agents to carry out these antisemitic attacks, potentially utilizing cryptocurrency.

The investigation is also examining the potential online radicalization of youth to commit such attacks.

Burke defended the decision not to release more specific information, arguing that the Australian Federal Police has valid reasons for their public disclosures.

Albanese refrained from providing further details about the AFP investigation, citing concerns that it might impede efforts to apprehend those responsible.

Opposition leader Peter Dutton questioned the lack of prior disclosure regarding the investigation and sought clarity on possible foreign involvement, including links to state actors or organized crime.

Shadow Home Affairs Minister James Paterson described the suggestion of foreign involvement as a serious claim, indicating it could signify a major domestic security crisis in Australia.