A Chinese national accused of covertly collecting information about a Canberra Buddhist association on behalf of a foreign principal has been charged by the AFP under the Counter Foreign Interference Taskforce (CFITF).
The woman appeared in ACT Magistrates Court today (4 August, 2025), to face one count of reckless foreign interference, contrary to section 92.3 of the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth), which carries a maximum penalty of 15 years' imprisonment.
The AFP arrested and charged the woman on Saturday (2 August, 2025), after executing search warrants at homes in Canberra.
During the searches, a number of items, including electronic devices, were seized and will undergo forensic examination.
Operation Autumn-Shield was launched in March 2025 by the AFP after receiving information from ASIO.
The AFP will allege the woman, who is also an Australian permanent resident, was tasked by a Public Security Bureau of China to covertly gather information about the Canberra branch of Guan Yin Citta, a Buddhist association.
It is the third time a foreign interference offence has been laid in Australia since new laws were introduced by the Commonwealth in 2018, and the first time relating to alleged community interference. A Victorian man was charged in November 2020, while a NSW man was charged in April 2023.
AFP Counter Terrorism and Special Investigations Assistant Commissioner Stephen Nutt said investigations continued and further charges had not been ruled out.
"Foreign interference is a serious crime that undermines democracy and social cohesion," Assistant Commissioner Nutt said.
"As with other like-minded countries, Australia is not immune to foreign interference, and we should not expect that this arrest will prevent further attempts to target our diaspora communities.
"At a time of permanent regional contest, offenders will attempt to spy on individuals, groups and institutions in Australia.
"That's why the AFP and our partners will continue to educate the community about what foreign interference is, how communities can protect themselves, and importantly, encouraging the public to contact authorities if they believe they are being targeted by those working for foreign entities.
"One of the best defences to foreign interference is increased public awareness and reporting to authorities."
ASIO Director-General Mike Burgess said he was proud of the significant contribution ASIO has made to this matter.
"Foreign interference of the kind alleged is an appalling assault on Australian values, freedoms and sovereignty," Director-General Burgess said.
"In this year's Annual Threat Assessment, I called out these types of activities and put perpetrators on notice by stating, 'we are watching, and we have zero tolerance'.
"Anyone who thinks it is acceptable to monitor, intimidate and potentially repatriate members of our diaspora communities should never underestimate our capabilities and resolve."
A factsheet on foreign interference is available in more than 40 languages on the AFP website. The factsheet explains what foreign interference is, how it manifests, and what individuals can do if they believe they are being threatened or intimidated by foreign governments.
Members of the public who feel threatened should contact their local police on 131 444, or in an emergency or life-threatening situation, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
Individuals or community groups who feel they are the target of foreign interference are encouraged to contact the National Security Hotline on 1800 123 400.