Australia follows US, Britain in sanctioning ‘Terrorgram’ extremist network

‘Terrorgram’, which primarily operates on the Telegram social media site, has been accused of promoting violent white supremacy

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In a statement, social media app Telegram said calls to violence have no place on its platform. Photo: Reuters

Published: 3:48pm, 3 Feb 2025

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.

“Terrorgram is an online network that promotes white supremacy and racially-motivated violence,” Wong said 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 said.

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong places a candle to pay tribute to victims at an event in Poland last month commemorating the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Nazi concentration and extermination camps. Photo: AFP

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