Two women in hijabs allegedly attacked in Epping last week while racist graffiti reported in western Sydney

• Follow our Australia news live blog for latest updates
• Get our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcast

Police are investigating if two alleged assaults in Melbourne were Islamophobic incidents after women in hijabs were attacked during the day.

Victoria police said two women, a 30-year-old from Lalor and a 26-year-old from Wollert, were allegedly attacked by the same assailant at Epping shopping centre on High Street between 1.10pm and 1.20pm on Thursday.

Sign up for Guardian Australia’s breaking news email