Police may be given more authority to crack down on extreme individuals promoting a racist revolution on Australia Day, as a group of around 60 hooded men, most wearing black masks and clothing, gathered in Artarmon in Sydney before boarding a city-bound train on Friday. The group’s plans to march through the city were foiled by police who stopped the train at North Sydney station. Six people were arrested and taken to Chatswood Police Station, and 55 men were fined for offensive behavior. Thomas Sewell, leader of the Australian neo-Nazi organization National Socialist Network, was among those ordered to stay out of the Sydney CBD on public safety grounds. The group subsequently marched through northern Sydney under close police observation.
New South Wales (NSW) Premier Chris Minns condemned the behavior and explicitly stated that “white supremacist thugs” are not welcome in the state. He expressed interest in bolstering laws regarding so-called white power salutes. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese echoed these sentiments, noting the repeated warnings from the head of Australia’s domestic spy agency about the rise of nationalist and racist violent extremism. He emphasized that these ideologies have no place and have been rightly condemned by all decent people. Additionally, a prominent Australian Jewish leader commended the swift police response while pointing out the commonalities between neo-Nazis and the pro-Palestinian element that has surfaced at Australia Day protests.
The incident served as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in the face of violent movements intent on spreading lies, hatred, and fear. NSW police expressed satisfaction with the overall response from the community, particularly highlighting the majority of people celebrating safely despite the hot weather and significant crowds.