A 70‑year‑old West Australian man has been charged after allegedly sending a series of racist and offensive emails to the electorate office of a federal parliamentarian, following an investigation by the Australian Federal Police.
The AFP’s National Security Investigations team launched the inquiry in April and executed a search warrant on Friday at a home in Yanchep, about 55 kilometres north of Perth’s CBD. Officers arrested the man, who has since been granted bail and is due to appear in the Perth Magistrates Court on July 10.
According to the AFP, the man has been charged with five counts of using a carriage service to menace, harass or cause offence, an offence that carries a maximum penalty of five years’ imprisonment. Investigators allege the emails sent to the MP’s office contained racist remarks.
AFP Acting Inspector Fleur Jennings said the force would not tolerate threats or abusive behaviour directed at elected officials.
“Like all employees in this country, public officials deserve to be able to go to work and conduct their business in a safe environment,” she said. “People should not think they can engage in offensive behaviour online and remain anonymous. The AFP has the resources and technology to find offenders who threaten, menace or harass parliamentarians and high‑office holders, and bring them before the courts.”
The case highlights the growing scrutiny on online abuse targeting public figures, with federal authorities warning that digital anonymity does not shield offenders from accountability.
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