Victorian Premier John Brumby is on the defensive after Indian High Commissioner Sujatha Singh accused his government of not doing enough to address attacks against Indian nationals.
Mr Brumby has indicated he will again meet with the High Commissioner in response to her comments.
Mrs Singh reportedly criticised Victoria for being in denial over the scale of the problem and falling behind New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia in tackling racist attacks.
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Mr Brumby says he had requested another meeting with the Indian envoy and will brief her on the progress that has been made, including boosting police patrols in high risk areas like railway stations and toughening up police powers to search for weapons.
He says he will also be able to reassure her that Victoria is a much safer place than other places in Australia and indeed around the world.
The Premier has repeated his call for a fair and balanced debate on the issue.
