Australia hits right-wing online network 'Terrorgram' with sanctions

3/2/2025 11:36

Australia on Monday imposed 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 said the government's action would make it a criminal offence to engage with "Terrorgram" and help prevent children from becoming caught up in far-right extremism.



Wong said in a statement, "Terrorgram is an online network that promotes white supremacy and racially-motivated violence."



"It is the first time any Australian Government has imposed counterterrorism financing sanctions on an entity based entirely online."



She said, offenders will face up to 10 years in jail and heavy fines.



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



U.S. President Joe Biden's administration in January designated "Terrorgram," which primarily operates on the Telegram social media site, accusing it of promoting violent white supremacy. Britain in April made it a criminal offense in the country to belong to or promote the group.



In a statement, Telegram said calls to violence have no place on its platform.