Feb 28 • 19:00 UTC 🇬🇧 UK Guardian

Violent and menacing threats to Australia’s politicians double in two years, according to police data

Threats of violence and intimidation against Australian politicians have surged, with reports nearly doubling in just two years as highlighted by police data.

According to recent data from the Australian Federal Police, reports of violent and menacing threats against federal politicians have significantly increased, with incidents nearly doubling from 555 in the 2021-22 period to 951 in 2024-25. This alarming rise reflects a growing culture of hostility toward elected officials, which has put increasing pressure on the security measures surrounding them. Notably, the Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, was recently evacuated from The Lodge in Canberra due to a bomb threat, underscoring the immediate dangers faced by politicians and their staff. The statistics paint a troubling picture of the political climate in Australia, indicating that the threats have escalated not only in frequency but also in severity. The AFP has laid at least 21 charges against individuals since October in response to these threats, showcasing the law enforcement community's efforts to address the issue. The increase in threats correlates with heightened public tensions and divisive political rhetoric, prompting concerns about the implications for democracy and the safety of public servants. This increase in violent threats is particularly concerning in light of Australia's diverse political landscape and current events. The recent bomb threat targeting Albanese appeared to be connected to the upcoming performances of the Chinese performance group Shen Yun, which is associated with the Falun Gong movement, linking a cultural event to political discord. As threats of violence become more common, there is a pressing need for both improved security protocols for politicians and a broader societal dialogue about political tolerance and respect for democratic processes.

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