Police evacuated Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese from The Lodge in Canberra on Tuesday evening after they received a bomb threat. Officers moved him out around 6 pm. The residence sits near Parliament House. He returned shortly after 9 pm once police finished their checks.

Federal Police Conduct Search

A spokesperson for the Australian Federal Police said officers responded to a security alert at a protected site. Local media reported that the threat involved a possible explosive device.

“A comprehensive search was conducted and nothing suspicious was found," the AFP said in a statement. The agency confirmed there was no ongoing threat to public safety. Officials said they would release more details if needed.

Interview Disrupted

Earlier that day, Albanese recorded a long interview at The Lodge with journalist Karl Stefanovic. The security scare interrupted his official schedule.

Threats Against Politicians Rising

Threats against elected officials have increased in Australia. Albanese and several federal lawmakers have faced more threats in recent months. Authorities have increased security at public events involving the Prime Minister.

In October last year, AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett announced the creation of special national security investigation teams. These teams focus on threats against politicians and public office holders.

Earlier this month, Barrett told a Senate committee that violent offenders had targeted federal politicians, government officials and members of Australia’s Jewish community. She said police have charged more than 20 people since late last year over such threats.

“We are seeing a continued rise in individual grievances, including people willing to make threats online and then act on them in the real world," she told lawmakers.