A 155-year-old monument was destroyed and another was graffitied overnight in Melbourne's Flagstaff Gardens.
The Pioneer Monument, erected in 1871 to commemorate early colonists, was discovered in pieces with "death to 'Australia'" graffitied at its base. Authorities suspect machinery was used to dismantle it.
The Separation Memorial, established in 1950 to mark the 100th anniversary of the Victorian Government's proclamation, was graffitied with "land back" but remained intact. Both vandalized monuments also displayed red triangles.
Victoria Police are conducting an investigation into the incidents, which are believed to have occurred between 10 PM on Wednesday and 6 AM on Thursday.
Melbourne Lord Mayor Nick Reece issued a statement indicating that damage to city assets will not be tolerated, and additional security measures are being implemented. He underscored that taxpayers ultimately bear the cost of repairs, deeming such vandalism unacceptable, irrespective of diverse views on monuments.
The vandalism and destruction of statues and memorials associated with colonialism have increased in frequency, particularly preceding Australia Day on January 26. Previous targets have included a memorial to John Batman and an Anzac memorial last year.