‘Lucky To Be Alive’: Elderly Indian-Origin Citizens Racially Abused In Melbourne

Last Updated:April 09, 2026, 22:25 IST

Indian origin seniors in Melbourne allege days of racist abuse, say a woman hurled rubbish then drove at them, injuring a man.

In a shocking incident, a group of Indian-origin elderly citizens in Melbourne’s west alleged days of racial abuse during their morning walks before the situation escalated at Sanctuary Lakes Shopping Centre in Point Cook when the accused woman tried to mow down the elderly citizens.

According to a report by The Australia Today, around 12 elderly Indian-origin residents regularly met in the shopping centre’s parking area for morning walks, coffee and socialising. Over several days, a woman allegedly approached the group, directing racist remarks such as “go back to your country" and telling them they “don’t belong here".

Rohit Singh, whose father is part of the group, said the situation turned violent when he intervened during one such incident. He alleged the woman threw a bag of rubbish at the group before driving her car toward them, striking him and his father. Singh was taken to hospital following the incident.

“I am lucky to be alive," Singh said, describing the episode as the culmination of repeated abuse targeting elderly members of the community.

Victoria Police attended the scene and a report has been filed. An off-duty police officer is also said to have witnessed the incident, though no arrests have been made so far. Authorities have confirmed the matter is under investigation.

Members of the group say the incident has deeply shaken their sense of safety. Parmar, one of the seniors, said morning walks are more than just exercise for older migrants.

“It is a space for us to socialise, language, friendship and a sense of belonging. That is what makes repeated racist harassment so deeply disturbing," he said.

The alleged attack has sparked concern within the local Indian-Australian community, raising broader questions about safety and racism in public spaces. Singh said he is speaking out to ensure awareness, adding that no elderly person should feel unsafe in their own neighbourhood.

News world ‘Lucky To Be Alive’: Elderly Indian-Origin Citizens Racially Abused In Melbourne

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