A 21-year-old man, Giovanni Laulu, has appeared before the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, charged in connection with the December 2023 arson attack that destroyed the Adass Israel Synagogue—an incident that shocked the nation and prompted an extensive investigation.
Laulu was arrested at a residence in Melbourne on Wednesday. Police allege he is one of three masked individuals who entered the synagogue before dawn on December 6, poured a liquid accelerant inside the building, and set it ablaze. A worshipper preparing for morning prayers sustained minor burns during the attack.
Authorities believe Laulu is the first of several suspects involved, with further arrests anticipated. Investigators suspect that additional accomplices may have coordinated elements of the crime from overseas.
Laulu faces multiple charges, including arson, reckless conduct endangering life, and car theft. During his brief court appearance, he confirmed his identity but declined to enter a plea or apply for bail. His lawyer informed the court that Laulu has previously served time in prison. Magistrate Brett Sonnett remanded him in custody until his next court appearance scheduled for August 6.
Prosecutors requested 12 weeks to prepare the case, noting that 11 mobile phones still require forensic analysis. Magistrate Sonnett granted the prosecution until October 22 to submit their evidence.
The attack, suspected to be politically motivated, has been the focus of a major joint investigation involving Victoria Police, federal authorities, and the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO). More than 220 officers have been engaged in the case, contributing over 50,000 investigative hours.
Victoria Police Chief Commissioner, Mike Bush, emphasized the gravity of the attack in a public statement:
“Victoria Police has seen firsthand the fear and distress this crime has caused within the community. People deserve to feel safe in their places of worship, that is non-negotiable. We remain committed to identifying and prosecuting everyone involved.”
The December synagogue fire remains the only antisemitic incident in Australia since October 7, 2023, to be formally classified as an act of terrorism, allowing expanded investigative and prosecutorial resources.
In response, the Australian federal government has pledged AU$30 million (approximately US$20 million) toward the reconstruction of the Adass Israel Synagogue.
