Members of an online white supremacist organisation known as Terrorgram are now facing potential sentences of up to 25 years in prison in Australia. This group has gained notoriety for inciting various terror attacks globally, particularly targeting minority communities and critical infrastructure. Operating primarily on the messaging platform Telegram, Terrorgram disseminates extremist content and detailed instructions for attacks.
The organisation has reportedly inspired acts of terrorism in multiple regions, including the United States, Europe, and Asia. In response to the threats posed by this group, Australian Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke announced that Terrorgram has been officially designated as a terrorist organisation. This classification follows consultations with national security and intelligence agencies.
Minister Burke indicated that this designation will grant Australian law enforcement and intelligence agencies enhanced powers to combat extremism and safeguard the public. He emphasised that the ideologies promoted by Terrorgram foster a sense of unease among Australians, asserting that such extremist views are unacceptable in the country.
With this new classification, not only do members face significant prison time, but also anyone associated with the group—be it supporters, recruiters, or fundraisers—risks severe consequences. Burke previously hinted at penalties associated with financial activities linked to Terrorgram, which were already imposed by Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong in February. Such sanctions make it a crime, punishable by up to 10 years in prison, to engage with the group’s assets or to facilitate access to them.
Australia’s actions align with similar measures undertaken by the UK and US against Terrorgram, demonstrating a coordinated international response to the rising threat of online radicalisation. Minister Burke highlighted the increasing risks linked to digital extremism, underscoring the government’s commitment to uphold safety for all Australians while collaborating with global partners in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism.