New Delhi:
The footballer who was involved in the latest attack on an Indian in Melbourne is a "good kid" who was too drunk, Premier of Australia's Victoria province said on Friday even as he promised "concrete action" into the "regretful" incident.
"I understand that (Michael) Hurley is a good kid. He is deeply remorseful. It is not typical of his behaviour...but he had too much to drink," John Brumby said when sought his comment on the latest assault.
In yet another attack on an Indian in Melbourne, the capital city of Victoria, a taxi driver from the community was injured when a drunk Hurley allegedly assaulted him after an altercation.
"The incident is regrettable and definitely concrete action would follow," he said adding police was dealing with it "expeditiously".
Essendon footballer Hurley was arrested for kicking and punching an Indian cabbie outside a fast-food outlet on Hoddle Street in Melbourne.
"I understand that the football club has indicated their regret and their apologies for what has occurred," Brumby said.
The premier is in India on a seven-day visit to project Australia as a safe destination for Indian students in the wake of spate of attacks on Indians there.
Asked about continuous attacks on Indians despite assurances by the Australian authorities, Brumby said, "In big cities like Melbourne, there is always going to be some kind of criminal activities."
However, he said his Government was doing its best to ensure safety of the Indians in Melbourne and other parts of the state.
A Victoria Police spokeswoman said the alleged attack was over a fare dispute. Hurley is expected to be charged for assault-related offences, according to Australian media reports.
Earlier at a meeting with Brumby, Overseas Indian Affairs Minister Vayalar Ravi conveyed to him India's concern over continuing attacks on its citizens and asked Australia to ensure punishment to all those involved such crimes.
Around 30 Indian students were attacked in various cities in Australia from June to August.