A Victorian man is expected to appear before Korumburra Magistrates' Court on 18 June, 2026, charged for allegedly using social media to threaten a federal parliamentarian.
The AFP's National Security Investigations (NSI) team started an investigation on 6 May, 2026 regarding a social media post that allegedly contained a threat to a parliamentarian.
On 8 May, 2026, AFP NSI investigators executed a search warrant at a property in Korumburra, in Victoria's South Gippsland region.
During the search warrant, several electronic devices were seized, including a phone which will be subject to further forensic examinations.
The man, 51, was charged with one count of using a carriage service to menace, harass or cause offence contrary to section 474.17(1) of the Criminal Code (Cth).
The maximum penalty for this offence is five years' imprisonment.
He was bailed to appear before the Korumburra Magistrates' Court on 18 June, 2026.
AFP Detective Superintendent Amanda Glover reminded the public it was an offence to threaten democratically elected officials online.
"Nobody, whether they are a parliamentarian or a private citizen, should be subject to online threats and attacks," Det Supt Glover said.
"If you think you can hide behind the anonymity of a screen and harass people online, think again.
"The AFP works tirelessly with partner agencies to detect, disrupt, and - where appropriate - prosecute individuals while protecting parliamentarians impacted by harassment or threats."
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.
