Australia slaps sanctions on far-right hate network ‘Terrorgram’

Australia says it is imposing sanctions on extreme right-wing online network “Terrorgram” as part of its efforts to combat a rise in antisemitism and online extremism, following similar moves by Britain and the United States.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong says the government’s action will make it a criminal offense to engage with “Terrorgram” and will help prevent children from becoming caught up in far-right extremism.

“Terrorgram is an online network that promotes white supremacy and racially-motivated violence,” Wong says in a statement. “It is the first time any Australian Government has imposed counterterrorism financing sanctions on an entity based entirely online.”

Offenders will face up to 10 years in jail and heavy fines, she says.

Wong also announces renewed sanctions on four right-wing groups: the National Socialist Order, the Russian Imperial Movement, Sonnenkrieg Division and The Base.

Australian authorities have vowed in recent weeks to tamp down on an escalating series of attacks on synagogues, buildings and cars targeting the country’s Jewish community.