A Melbourne man, 32, is expected to face Melbourne Magistrates' Court next week (27 November, 2025) after the AFP charged him today with using a carriage service to harass a federal parliamentarian.
An AFP National Security Investigations (NSI) team began an investigation in November, 2025, after the parliamentarian's electoral office reported receiving abusive emails and a phone call.
The man allegedly sent multiple harassing emails before escalating to an abusive phone call, which included hateful and menacing rhetoric.
The man also allegedly defaced a flag at the parliamentarian's electoral office.
The AFP executed a search warrant in the Melbourne suburb of Mernda today (21 November, 2025) and seized multiple electronic devices and offensive material.
The 32-year-old was 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).
The offence carries a maximum penalty of five years' imprisonment.
AFP acting Assistant Commissioner Matthew Gale said the AFP took all reports regarding the safety and security of parliamentarians seriously.
"The AFP supports freedom of speech and political expression, but any criminal behaviour, including threats and harassment, will not be tolerated," acting Assistant Commissioner Gale said.
"We are putting on notice any individual or group attempting to erode our country's social fabric by advocating hatred and fear.
"Whether offending occurs online or in-person, the AFP will use its unique capabilities and legislation to collect intelligence and evidence, and prosecute those who seek to harm our community."
The AFP set up NSI teams in September, 2025, to target groups and individuals causing high levels of harm to Australia's social cohesion, including the targeting of federal parliamentarians.
