Firefighter ID and 'RAT' Etched on Bullet Left on Victoria Minister's Car

A bullet engraved with the word "RAT" and a specific firefighter identification number was found on the bonnet of a vehicle belonging to a Victorian government minister on Saturday. The object served as a tangible warning during a period of heightened political tension in the state.

Paul Edbrooke, the Labor minister for emergency services, disclosed the discovery after speaking with community members. He stated that he returned to his car to find the projectile resting on the hood. The Herald Sun first reported the incident on Monday. Edbrooke described the markings as a clear signal, noting that the ID number is unique to a firefighter and not commonly known to the general public.

The minister characterized the item as a death threat. He expressed concern for his family's safety, particularly because his children drive the same vehicle. In an interview with ABC Radio Melbourne, Edbrooke said he was shocked and horrified by the finding. He questioned whether he was being followed or surveilled, adding that the specific nature of the ID number made the message unmistakable.

Edbrooke attributed the aggressive threats and social media abuse to members of the United Firefighters Union. The union is currently involved in legal proceedings at the Fair Work Commission regarding an enterprise bargaining agreement with Fire Rescue Victoria. The two parties have failed to resolve the agreement since 2021. Edbrooke oversees the agency and said the only group sending hostile messages was the union.

The union has intensified its campaign against the state Labor government in the leadup to next month's election. It has authorized material urging voters to rank the party last. The group also plans to staff polling booths with firefighters and run an expensive advertising campaign. Additionally, the union is holding a members' meeting to consider disaffiliating from the Victorian Labor party.

Edbrooke said he would not allow the incident to intimidate him. He referenced the recent alleged attack on federal MP Helen Haines in Wangaratta, though he noted there is no suggestion the two events are connected. He warned that such actions could lead to politicians requiring more security, making them less accessible to the public. Edbrooke said he hoped Australians could continue to disagree politically while maintaining open communication.