Australia imposed sanctions on the extreme right-wing online network Terrorgram aimed at tackling the surge in antisemitism and online extremism, following similar actions by Britain and the United States. Foreign Minister Penny Wong declared that engaging with Terrorgram would now be a criminal offense, emphasizing the network's promotion of white supremacy and racially motivated violence. This marks the first time Australia has imposed counterterrorism financing sanctions on an entirely online entity. Offenders could face up to 10 years in jail and hefty fines.
Furthermore, Wong announced that the Australian government had extended sanctions to other right-wing groups, such as the National Socialist Order, the Russian Imperial Movement, Sonnenkrieg Division, and The Base, as part of its efforts to combat extremism. Previously, U.S. President Joe Biden's administration had condemned "Terrorgram" for promoting violent white supremacy on the Telegram social media site, while Britain had banned affiliation with or promotion of the group.
Recent events, including the arrest of neo-Nazi group members in Adelaide during Australia's National Day, illustrate the ongoing challenges. Notably, Australia has witnessed a surge in attacks on synagogues, buildings, and cars since the Israel-Gaza conflict started in October 2023, causing fear among the country's approximately 115,000 Jewish population.