Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was evacuated from his official Canberra residence on Tuesday night following a security incident after police responded to a reported bomb threat. The 62-year-old was moved from ‘The Lodge’ to another secure location at about 6 pm (local) time while authorities conducted a full investigation. He returned only after 9 pm (local time) once the search was completed.
An Australian Federal Police spokesperson confirmed that officers were alerted to an alleged security incident at the property located near Parliament House. “A thorough search of a protection establishment was undertaken and nothing suspicious was located. There is no current threat to the community or public safety. Further information will be provided at an appropriate time,” a statement said, as per The Guardian.ย
Albanese recorded interview hours before the scare
Earlier on Tuesday, Albanese had recorded a one-hour interview with a journalist at The Lodge. The Prime Minister, along with several federal MPs, has faced multiple security threats in recent months. His public appearances have also witnessed a visibly heightened security presence.
Growing security concerns around Australian political leaders
The incident comes at a time when concerns over the safety of elected representatives in Australia are steadily rising. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and several federal lawmakers have reportedly faced an increase in threats in recent months, resulting in a more visible security presence at public events attended by the Prime Minister.
In October last year, Krissy Barrett, Commissioner of the Australian Federal Police (AFP), announced the establishment of specialised national security investigation teams to handle the surge in threats targeting politicians and other public office holders. Earlier this month, she informed a Senate committee that federal politicians, government officials and members of Australia’s Jewish community had been targeted by violent offenders. Barrett also revealed that more than 20 people have been charged since late last year in connection with such threats.
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