Police have released new images of suspects in an alleged terror attack on a Melbourne defence contractor, which they say may have been orchestrated by far-left extremists with anarchist and revolutionary ideologies.
The Victorian Joint Counter Terrorism Team (JCTT) is investigating the attack on Lovitt Technologies in Greensborough, which produces parts for F-35 Joint Strike Fighter jets. The attack occurred in the early hours of July 5, 2025.
Attack on defence supplier
The JCTT alleges members of an unnamed group vandalised the business, set alight multiple vehicles on the property, and later posted about it online. Lovitt Technologies manufactures parts for Lockheed-Martin F-35 fighter jets, a global supply chain Australia participates in, which has become controversial due to Israel's use of F-35 jets in the Gaza Strip.
Authorities say the alleged offenders expressed support for Palestine and targeted the facility due to its role in Australian Defence Force supply chains.
Police appeal for information
AFP Detective Superintendent Anthony Hall said the alleged attack was serious and urged anyone with information to come forward immediately.
“The JCTT clearly have some information about these alleged offenders and are focused on identifying who they are. At any time, we could be knocking on the door of the accused group. We know this is making some in the group anxious – as it should, because we are determined to bring them before the courts,” he said.
Potential life imprisonment
Detective Superintendent Hall warned that the alleged offenders could face significant jail time.
“We cannot overstate the seriousness of this terror-related crime, and 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,” he said.
Under the Criminal Code, conviction for terror offences can carry a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, according to a statement by the JCTT, which includes Victoria Police, ASIO and the AFP.
Community risk
The JCTT has also alleged that members of the group voiced opposition to the Australian government and offered advice on how to make incendiary devices similar to the one suspected of being used to damage cars at Lovitt Technologies.
Victoria Police Detective Acting Superintendent Anthony Wheatfill suggested the attack had the potential to put the wider community at significant risk.
“Fire, in particular, is a very dangerous method of committing crimes of this nature. Not only is it dangerous for the people actually perpetrating it, but for the wider community and neighboring houses and businesses, and we really deplore this type of activity and the danger that they put the broader community in,” he said.
He added that using violent or dangerous methods to express political or social viewpoints is unacceptable.
“Everyone has the right to do their business as they wish to do so, and some attacks, particularly attacks of this nature, for a political or a social agenda, is really not acceptable in this circumstance,” he said.
