A Wollongong man has been charged for allegedly making an online threat aimed at a federal parliamentarian.
The man is scheduled to appear before Port Kembla Local Court on 25 June, 2026.
Investigations into the man, 62, began in April, 2026, after the AFP received a report relating to a social media post containing a violent threat.
The AFP’s National Security Investigations (NSI) team allegedly linked the man’s social media account to the threat.
A search warrant was executed in Koonawarra, NSW, on 4 June, 2026, where police seized items, including an electronic device and ammunition.
The man has been charged with one count of using a carriage service to menace, harass or cause offence, contrary to section 474.17 of the Criminal Code (Cth).
He was granted police bail and faces a maximum penalty of five years’ imprisonment if convicted.
AFP Detective Acting Inspector Chris Campbell said public officials, like any employee, had the right to conduct their duties without receiving threats or offensive messages.
“Actions in the online world have real-life impacts on people, and anyone who thinks they can make online threats without facing consequences is mistaken,” Det a/Insp Campbell said.
“The AFP has the resources and technology to find you and bring you 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, including the targeting of the federal parliamentarians.
