A West Australian man has been charged today (5 June, 2026) with allegedly sending offensive emails to a federal parliamentarian.
AFP National Security Investigations (NSI) began an investigation in April, 2026, after receiving notification of eight allegedly offensive emails containing racist remarks sent to the electorate office of a federal parliamentarian.
Police allegedly linked the man, 70, to the emails and executed a search warrant today (5 June, 2026) at a home in Yanchep.
The man was arrested and bailed to appear in Perth Magistrates Court on 10 July, 2026, charged with five counts of using a carriage service to menace, harass or cause offence, contrary to section 474.17 of the Criminal Code (Cth).
The maximum penalty for this offence is five years’ imprisonment.
AFP Acting Inspector Fleur Jennings said offensive remarks towards elected officials would not be tolerated.
“Like all employees in this country, public officials deserve to be able to go to work and conduct their business in a safe environment,” Acting Inspector Jennings said.
“People should not think they can engage in offensive behaviour online and remain anonymous.
“The AFP has the resources and technology to find offenders who threaten, menace or harass parliamentarians and high office holders, and bring them before the courts.”
AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett announced the establishment of NSI teams in October, 2025, to target groups and individuals causing high levels of harm to Australia’s social cohesion.
