Couple reject offender's in-person apology after racial abuse in Melbourne
A Melbourne couple refused an in-person apology from a woman who racially abused them at Bunnings, asking for genuine change instead.
A couple racially abused in a Bunnings car park declined an in-person apology from the offender. After a traffic dispute at the Hawthorn store, a woman identified as Krause told the other motorist "that's not how you drive in this country" and "go back to China".
After being identified online, Krause issued a public apology. The victims, in a statement to 7NEWS, said they do not want an in-person apology.
They hope Krause takes time to think about why she held those views. They want to see her change how she sees people from different backgrounds.
The family thanked a bystander who had challenged the offender during the incident. They called her actions a true example of standing up to racism.
The victims said they love Australia and want it to remain safe and welcoming for everyone.
- Hawthorn, Melbourne
- Location
- 30 years in Australia
- Victim's tenure
- Children's art teacher
- Offender's role
Why it mattersThe victims' response shows how communities are addressing racism not with performative gestures but with calls for genuine reflection and behaviour change.
AustraliaThe incident reflects the discrimination many immigrants to Australia face, highlighting the work still needed to make the country welcoming.
