A Greek Australian woman was the subject of a racial attack on a Melbourne train this week.
Arna Dionysopoulos, 26, was on her way home from work on Wednesday afternoon, when a man described to be Caucasian, noticed her nametag.
The Age reported that the man then proceeded to tell her that she should “get out of Australia”, adding that he would love to put a gun to her and her father’s heads and pull the trigger.
The IT consultant, who was born in Australia to a Greek father and German mother, says that she initially didn’t realise the abusive comments were directed at her, as she considers herself to be as Australian as anyone else.
“It’s quite shocking that that’s what some people believe,” she told The Age.
“If you live here, you’re Australian.”
Ms Dionysopoulos’ attempts to ignore the abusive comments by reading her book however, were unsuccessful.
The man, who she says could have possibly been under the influence of drugs, continued to hurl abuse, and upon being told to calm down by a fellow commuter, claimed to have four knives on him.
The 26-year-old then disembarked the train at Footscray station ahead of her destination. Thankfully another commuter accompanied her, as they soon discovered the abuser had followed them.
Shaken by the incident, Ms Dionysopoulos quickly contact the police and reported the matter.
*The man is believed to be between 173cm to 183cm tall with a thin build, and unshaven. If you have any information regarding the incident, contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report via www.crimestoppersvic.com.au