Members of an online white supremacist network known as Terrorgram are now facing potential prison sentences of up to 25 years in Australia. This organisation, labelled a “nationalist and racist violent extremist group,” operates predominantly on the messaging platform Telegram, disseminating content and guidelines for attacks aimed at minority communities, critical infrastructure, and specific individuals.
Terrorgram has successfully incited terrorist actions in various regions, including the US, Europe, and Asia. In a recent announcement, Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke declared that the Australian government has officially designated Terrorgram as a terrorist organisation, following deliberations with national security and intelligence authorities. This classification enhances the powers of Australian police and security agencies, enabling them to better protect citizens and curtail extremist activities within the nation.
Minister Burke emphasised that the group promotes ideologies that create an unwelcoming atmosphere for some Australians, reinforcing that such extremist sentiments are intolerable in the country. As a consequence of this designation, members, their affiliates, and anyone involved in recruitment or support activities directed towards Terrorgram now face severe legal consequences.
Earlier this year, Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong implemented financing sanctions against Terrorgram, making it punishable with up to a decade in prison for anyone facilitating financial assistance to the group. Similar actions have been carried out by the UK and the US against Terrorgram. Minister Burke acknowledged the increasing threat of online radicalisation and reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding the country and collaborating with international partners in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism.