Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was swiftly evacuated from his official residence in Canberra earlier today. This urgent action was taken following a security alert that prompted a response from the Australian Federal Police (AFP).

The incident unfolded around 6 PM, when AFP officers were called to address what was described as an “alleged security incident.” In a statement, a spokesperson for the AFP assured that a comprehensive search was conducted at the premises, ultimately finding nothing suspicious.

“There is no current threat to the community or public safety,” the spokesperson confirmed, aiming to allay any public concerns about the incident.

While details surrounding the security alert remain unclear, it highlights a broader trend of increasing threats against politicians. Data reveals that the AFP dealt with 951 referrals or threats directed at parliamentarians in the 2024-25 financial year. This marks a significant 63 percent increase over the past four years, underscoring a growing challenge in ensuring the safety of public officials.

It’s unclear what was behind the security incident but the number of threats against politicians has been rising over the years.

The AFP received 951 referrals or threats against parliamentarians in the 2024-25 financial year, rising 63 per cent over the past four years.

Sydney eastern suburbs politicians including independent federal MP Allegra Spender and NSW Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane were the subject of inflammatory, misogynistic and violent threats after condemning a neo-Nazi rally outside NSW parliament in November.

In December, a man was charged after several online threats were made to kill federal Communications Minister Anika Wells.

Later that month, a 27-year-old Sydney man was arrested after allegedly threatening in online posts to kidnap Albanese.

Albanese moved into The Lodge as his primary residence when he became prime minister, breaking with the pattern established by John Howard and continued by most of those who followed, who lived in Kirribilli House on Sydney Harbour.

“I’m already at The Lodge. I have moved most of my personal effects from my flat in Canberra there across to The Lodge plus some things down from Sydney,” he told The Canberra Times at the time.

“It’s the national capital. And that is important. Family considerations are why I’ll spend time in Sydney as well.”