Media Release
Perth man charged with possessing violent extremist material and four counts of breaching bail
This is a joint media release between Australian Federal Police, Western Australia Police Force and Australia Security Intelligence Organisation
A Perth man, 21, appeared before Perth Magistrates Court today (5 December, 2025), charged with possessing violent extremist material and four counts of breaching bail.
The Western Australia Joint Counter Terrorism Team (WA-JCTT) yesterday (4 December, 2025) executed a search warrant at a property in Westminster and seized two computers and a mobile phone.
WA-JCTT comprises the AFP, Western Australia Police Force (WAPF) and Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO).
Police will allege an electronic device contained data accessed via the internet that constitutes violent extremist material.
Police will also allege the man used one of the devices to send messages on a messaging platform asking for assistance with explosive devices, military and tactical training, education, weapons manufacturing, combat techniques and fake documents.
The forensic search also revealed text messages and phone calls to a woman known to him. The man was charged in October for allegedly assaulting and threatening to kill the woman and was on bail in relation to these charges.
The man has now been charged with the following offences:
One count of possessing or controlling violent extremist material obtained or accessed using a carriage service, contrary to section 474.45C of the Criminal Code (Cth). The maximum penalty for this offence is five years’ imprisonment.
Four counts of breaching bail, contrary to section 51 of the Bail Act 1982 (WA). The maximum penalty for this offence is three years’ imprisonment and/or a $10,000 fine.
The man was remanded in custody at a court appearance today. He is next due to appear in court on 10 December, 2025.
AFP Commander Nick Read said violent extremist material accessed by young people could have serious consequences for the community.
“Extremist groups target vulnerable and young individuals online for radicalisation as they are more susceptible to being influenced,” Commander Read said.
“Our priority is to keep Australians safe from those who seek to harm or radicalise them. We urge parents, carers, family and friends to speak out if they see any signs of radicalisation in people they are close to.”
Western Australia Police Force Detective Superintendent Ricky Chadwick said online activity was traceable and had repercussions.
“Accessing and engaging in online platforms that promote violence and extremist content has consequences, which can lead to criminal prosecution,” Det-Supt Chadwick said.
“Individuals who engage in illegal online behaviour make deliberate choices that carry serious consequences.
“Law enforcement continues to monitor online environments where harmful content is shared.
“The WA Police Force work with and support our Commonwealth law enforcement and intelligence partners to identify and disrupt people who are engaging in criminal conduct.”
Signs a person may be susceptible to radicalisation include:
distancing themselves from their usual friends and family members;
an increase in the extremist nature of their rhetoric or propaganda they propagate;
a child using hateful or emotionally charged language;
developing a fixation on conspiracy theories or contentious social issues;
displaying extreme reaction to certain news or politics, or
spending increasing amounts of time in fringe forums on the internet.
A priority for the AFP, alongside JCTT partners, is to limit the accessibility of violent extremist material and to promote education and awareness for those in protective roles, including parents, educators and health care providers, to maximise prevention and early intervention options.
The AFP supports the increase in accountability by internet service providers and social media corporations to take action against the removal of violent extremist material online.
The AFP, and JCTT partners, continue to remain vigilant and ready to respond to threats of radicalisation and extremism among vulnerable young people.
If you believe someone you know is in immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000) or local police (131 444). If you suspect someone is being radicalised online or in person, call the National Security Hotline on 1800 123 400.
For anonymous reporting, visit the Crime Stoppers website or call the toll free number 1800 333 000.
