Early Monday morning, Lord Mayor Robert Doyle’s house was the target of a paint bombing, which saw the front and side walls covered in paint.

The Street Artists for Doyle Collective claimed responsibility in a post published on the Facebook page of Insurrection News, which describes itself as “an international anarchist news organisation”.

The collective also left a note at Doyle’s house explaining the motivations behind the act, which they describe as “street art”.

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“We were particularly inspired by your recent support for our fellow street artists who were criminalised for their beautification of the cement bollards in Central Melbourne,” the collective wrote. “We recognise the bollards play a vital role in our national security, preventing terrorists from striking at the heart of our beloved city.

“Hence, in appreciation for your support of Melbourne’s vibrant and internationally(sic) street art culture, we felt it was both our civic and creative duty to bestow upon you a personalised gift. We genuinely hope that you will forever enjoy your own priceless piece of street art. We presume our contribution will result in an increase of your property value ...”

The paint was launched at approximately 1.30am on Monday. Speaking to media yesterday, Doyle explained that his family had not been woken by the protest, but condemned it nonetheless.

“It’s very distressing that when you’re in public life you’re fair game. If you’re at work and you’ve done something people disagree with, by all means protest, but I think people’s private houses and their families are seriously off limits and that was very disappointing,” he said.

Police are investigating the incident.

This is the second time this year Doyle’s house has been targeted by protesters. He believes the protests are in retaliation for the removal of homeless camps under Flinders Street bridge. During the press conference Doyle defended his work with the city’s homeless community.

“I look back at yesterday and I think to myself ‘Rob, what did you do yesterday for homeless people?’ and the answer to that is well, I worked with the Salvos to open a pop-up shop where people who have been homeless can work and generate revenue for the services that will help homeless people.”

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