Australian Federal Police Warn of Increased Threats to Parliamentarians and Rising Online Radicalisation

Australian Federal Police (AFP) Commissioner Reece Kershaw has reported a significant increase in threats against Australian parliamentarians, with 725 instances recorded so far this financial year, a notable rise from 279 in 2020-21. Addressing senate estimates, Kershaw expressed concern over a 160% surge in harassment, nuisance, and threats towards MPs and senators over the past four years. The AFP has ramped up security measures in response to the escalating risks, including heightened security at events deemed high-risk. Kershaw described the threats as a “threat to democracy” and revealed plans to ensure safety during the next federal election, scheduled by May 2025.
Additionally, Kershaw highlighted the worrying trend of young Australians being radicalized online, pointing to incidents of violence planning in schools and the involvement of youths in terrorism-related activities. Since July 2021, investigations into 27 young individuals aged between 12 to 17 have led to charges against 60% of them for various offences, including terrorism advocacy and planning. While the AFP focuses on early intervention and disruption to prevent terrorism offences, managing high-risk terrorism offenders post-release remains resource-intensive, with significant planning and supervision required.
Kershaw called on parents to monitor their children’s “online nutrition” to combat exposure to harmful content, emphasizing the collaborative efforts with agencies, community, and faith leaders to address these challenges.