Australian PM Albanese Evacuated from The Lodge After 6pm Bomb Threat Hoax

Thorough Search Yields Nothing

A detailed search of protected premises showed nothing suspicious, yet the Australian Federal Police confirmed there was no continuing threat to the safety of the public. The Prime Minister’s office said it was confident in the police response and thanked security personnel.
Officers were warned of an alleged security breach at a protected location, a spokesperson said. Details were withheld, but local media said the alert identified a threat of an explosive device. Details will be shared if necessary, authorities say. 

Official Statement on Incident

The Australian Federal Police said in a statement that it had responded to an alleged security incident around 6 pm (0700 GMT) as noted by AFP news agency.
“About 6pm today, the AFP (Australian Federal Police) responded to an alleged security incident within the ACT,” the police said.

Rising Threats to Aussie Leaders

The Prime Minister and a number of federal MPs have been the object of security threats in recent months. The last security presence in the public arena was also conspicuous for his appearances. The attack is a timely one against a backdrop of growing concerns about Australian elected officials.
In recent months, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and several federal lawmakers reported an increase in threats, with a rising security presence during public events attended by the prime minister himself. 

20+ Charged in Politician Attacks

In October last year AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett announced a deployment of special police teams to deal with threats to politicians and others holding public office. Earlier this month she told a Senate committee federal politicians, officials and members of Australia's Jewish community had all faced violent offenders.
More than 20 people have been charged in connection with such threats since late last year in connection with those threats, Barrett said.
“We are witnessing the continued rise of individual grievances, including those who are willing to make threats in the online world and then carry them out in the real world,” Barrett said.