Albanese evacuated from Lodge due to security threat

Anthony Albanese has been evacuated from The Lodge in Canberra due to a security threat.Federal police relocated the Prime Minister to a secure location around 6 pm.

A comprehensive search of the protection establishment is ongoing.

The Australian Federal Police confirmed there is no current threat to public safety.

An Australian Federal Police spokesperson said they were alerted to an alleged security incident at the property, near Parliament House.

“A thorough search of a protection establishment was undertaken and nothing suspicious was located,” a statement said.

“There is no current threat to the community or public safety.

The scene at The Lodge. Photo Credit: Lexie Jeuniewic

“Further information will be provided at an appropriate time.”

This incident follows a recent event where a man was shot dead by Secret Service agents after breaching the perimeter of Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, while Mr Trump and his wife Melania were in Washington.

Security Incident

Prime Minister Albanese’s evacuation highlights ongoing security concerns. Authorities are increasing vigilance in light of recent events involving high-profile figures.

Coordination between federal and local agencies remains crucial to ensure safety and security protocols are effectively executed.

Earlier in the day, Albanese recorded an hour-long interview with journalist Karl Stefanovic at The Lodge.

Last week, Mr Albanese urged Australians to “turn the temperature down” following a major defence event in Canberra that was disrupted by police-investigated incidents. 

Hundreds of attendees at the ADM Congress were evacuated after a suspicious package was discovered.  The bomb squad was then deployed to the scene. 

During another address, a rock was thrown through a hotel window causing a scramble for the exits. 

The evacuation of The Lodge comes amid heightened concerns about threats directed at elected officials across Australia.