An 18-year-old named Aahana Nag appeared at Brisbane Magistrates Court to face charges of wilful damage after vandalising the office of former federal opposition leader Peter Dutton. The incident occurred on April 29, during the early hours of the morning, as Dutton’s campaign for the federal election was ongoing.
Dutton’s office, located in Arana Hills, was targeted when Nag and three accomplices arrived in a vehicle around 2:30 am. Wearing a surgical mask, she used a fire extinguisher filled with red paint to deface the office, alongside posters that condemned Dutton’s positions on the Gaza conflict and his perceived affinity with former US President Donald Trump.
Following the act of vandalism, police were alerted and promptly dispatched to the scene. They deployed police dogs to assist in apprehending Nag, who suffered injuries from a dog during her arrest. In her possession, authorities found several items, including surgical gloves, masks, a baseball cap, and a balaclava.
In court, Nag’s defence lawyer argued that her actions stemmed from a strong sense of political and social awareness, particularly regarding Dutton’s stances on issues such as environmental concerns and the genocide of Palestinian people. Aahana pleaded guilty and was ordered to complete 20 hours of community service within six months, with no conviction recorded against her.
When Nag appeared at court, she was supported by a group of advocates, who concealed her identity as she arrived. After her sentencing, she spoke to reporters, characterising her actions as a form of resistance against Dutton, stating, “Peter Dutton does not support us.”
During the election campaign, Dutton condemned the vandalism, labelling it “outrageous” and contrary to democratic principles. Notably, Dutton later made headlines as the first opposition leader to lose his seat, with Labor candidate Ali France securing victory in Dickson.
Although most of the vandalism has been cleared from Dutton’s now-vacant office, remnants of red paint and graffiti proclaiming “Fascists don’t represent us” remain visible, signifying the contentious political atmosphere surrounding the incident.