Media Release
Sydney man charged with encouraging abuse and hate towards a federal parliamentarian
Editor’s note: An image is available via Hightail
A Sydney man, 30, is expected to face the NSW Bail Division Local Court tomorrow (21 November, 2025) charged with using a carriage service to harass a federal parliamentarian.
An AFP National Security Investigations (NSI) team began an investigation after identifying an alleged menacing message on an encrypted online platform.
The message allegedly encouraged abusive and hateful messages to be directed towards a federal parliamentarian, following their condemnation of a National Socialist Network protest on 8 November, 2025.
The AFP allegedly linked the man to the message sent on the encrypted online platform. A search warrant was executed on the Sydney man today (20 November, 2025) with the man’s electronic devices seized.
After a forensic examination of the devices, the man was charged with one count of using a carriage service to menace, harass or cause offence, contrary to section 474.17 of the Criminal Code (Cth).
The offence carries a maximum penalty of five years’ imprisonment.
AFP Detective Superintendent Jeremy Staunton said advocating hatred or violent extremism had no place in the Australian community.
“The AFP supports freedom of speech and political expression but let it be clear any alleged criminal behaviour, including threats and harassment, will not be tolerated,” said Det Supt Staunton.
“Individuals or groups who promote hatred and fear are eroding the social fabric of our community. There is no place for violent extremist views, and the AFP will defend and protect Australia and Australia’s future from these threats.
“The AFP takes all reports regarding the safety and security of parliamentarians seriously."
The AFP set up NSI teams in September, 2025, to target groups and individuals causing high levels of harm to Australia’s social cohesion, including the targeting of federal parliamentarians.
