Young Australians are increasingly accessing violent extremist content online, which could lead to radicalisation, says the country’s federal police.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has urged parents to monitor their children’s online activity, including the games they play, who they communicate with, and the content they access.
Radicalisation on the Rise
Between January 2020 and December 2024, the AFP and its Joint Counter-Terrorism Teams (JCTTs) have investigated 37 individuals aged 17 or younger, with the youngest being just 12 years old.About 57 percent of these individuals have been charged with offences related to violent extremist material.
The AFP notes a troubling trend where extremist videos and propaganda are being shared across platforms like Discord, Telegram, and TikTok.
Investigators have found that these materials, often including hate speech and far-right content, are designed to incite violence and group action.
Assistant Commissioner Stephen Nutt emphasised the growing risk of radicalisation, particularly with young people who are more susceptible to extremist influences.
“We are seeing more children accessing extremist material, which increases the risk of them being radicalised or joining terrorist organisations,” he said.
Promoting Online Safety
As part of its response, the AFP has urged parents, educators, and health care providers to be vigilant and proactive in supporting young people who may be vulnerable.Signs that a child may be at risk include increased use of emotionally charged language, obsession with conspiracy theories, and a fixation on contentious political issues.
The AFP has also highlighted recent changes in the law that make it an offence to access, share, or promote violent extremist material online, with penalties of up to five years in prison.
Meanwhile, the AFP is working to limit the accessibility of such content. It supports the accountability of internet service providers and social media companies in removing extremist material from their platforms.
The warning comes just weeks after ASIO Chief Mike Burgess told a Senate committee that the evolving counter-terrorism landscape meant officers were dealing with online radicalisation more.
Burgess stressed the need for a community-wide response, acknowledging that ASIO alone cannot manage the growing threat of youth radicalisation and extremism.
For parents concerned about their children’s online activity or signs of radicalisation, the AFP advises contacting the National Security Hotline or local police.
