Josh Burns: Federal Labor MP's St Kilda office smashed and set on fire

Vandals have smashed windows and set fire to the front of federal Labor MP Josh Burns’ Melbourne electoral office in what he has branded a “politically motivated attack”.

At least five people were seen near the office located on Barkly Street in St Kilda about 3.20am on Wednesday, police were told.

The group smashed windows and graffitied the walls in red paint with slogans that read, ‘Zionism is fascism’.

Investigators said small fires were lit in the telecommunications pits at the front of the building before the group ran from the scene.

The member for Macnamara, who is Jewish, has been targeted in the past by vandals defacing his election posters.

Police are investigating the circumstances and have shut down Barkly Street in both directions.

In a statement on X Mr Burns said his St Kilda office was damaged in a “politically motivated attack”.

“I’ve been in contact with the Federal Police and am awaiting further advice,” he said.

“My team won’t be at the office this morning, or until we’re told it is safe to do so, but we’re still here to help our community and can be contacted by email.

“I understand those who have seen images or vision of the attack might find it distressing.”

Federal Labor minister Katy Gallagher condemned the crime, saying attacks on politicians’ offices are “not the way that we do politics in Australia”.

“This type of criminal activity - vandalism - is outrageous, and we need to make sure that the community understands that this is just not on,” she told ABC TV.

“For the minority who are engaging in this damaging and hateful behaviour, we urge them to stop, because it’s not safe.”

Anyone who witnessed the incident or with footage has been urged to contact Crime Stoppers.