Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has become the target of activists after a statue depicting him in a lewd act with Donald Trump was erected near Victoria’s parliament.
The statue portrayed Mr Albanese kneeling in front of US President Donald Trump, with footage posted online showing a stream of water being sprayed onto the Prime Minister’s face.
A plaque was also placed at the base of the statue, displaying the title: “A golden opportunity”.
“May I lick your boots, boss?” the plaque read, followed by: “The Prime Minister gargled as the President p***ed in his mouth”.
“Erected by The New Radicals.”
The activist group posted a clip of the stunt to social media, alongside the words displayed on the plaque.
A City of Melbourne spokesperson said the council “became aware of an unauthorised installation” at Gordon Reserve on Friday morning.
“Council officers immediately attended the scene to remove the installation,” the spokesperson said.
“Council is also reviewing Safe City Camera footage and will provide relevant material to Victoria Police upon application.”
The statue was removed by council workers by 9.30am, The Herald Sun reported.
Victorian Police confirmed it was investigating after the statue was erected in a Melbourne CBD park on Friday.
“Investigators believe the statue was erected, on its own improvised plinth, in parkland along Spring Street about 7am,” a police spokesperson said.
“Officers responded promptly to reports of the incident, and with assistance from local council, the statue and plinth were dismantled.
“Investigators are working to determine if there are any criminal offences related to the incident.”
Police have urged any witnesses or anyone with relevant information or footage to come forward by contacting Crime Stoppers via 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.