Online hate spilling into real world, Australian police warn

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 27 Oct, 17:02 · Archive

Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett has warned that online hate is increasingly manifesting in real-world violence against politicians.

Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett has warned of a significant shift in which online hate is extending into real-world violence. She made the comments during a late-night Senate estimates hearing, noting 'a heaviness that hangs across Australia' following an attack on independent MP Helen Haines, who lost both her legs after being struck repeatedly by a four-wheel drive outside her office in Wangaratta. State authorities are investigating the attack, and Ms Barrett confirmed the alleged offender was not previously known to federal police.

Ms Barrett said the trend aligns with a global pattern of violence from individuals largely unknown to authorities. 'Lone actors are being motivated by a convergence of personal grievances, mental health vulnerabilities and ideological concerns,' she told senators. She described how technology, social media and artificial intelligence have created an 'instant pipeline of hate' reaching people's homes, workplaces and teenagers.

The scale of the problem is substantial. The AFP received 785 protective security reports containing 'adverse content' about federal parliamentarians in the first half of the year, with 394 directed at male MPs and 371 against female MPs. Ms Barrett said investigators are charging almost one person a week for targeting Commonwealth parliamentarians or high office holders. She warned that no single measure can undo the change in social attitudes driving political threats.

How it is being reported

• Online hate is spilling into the real world, AFP warnsA real shift has occurred as online hate has extended out into real life, AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett has told senators during a rushed late-night hearing.Perth Now · 27 Oct, 16:36
• Online hate is spilling into the real world, AFP warnsA real shift has occurred as online hate has extended out into real life, AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett has told senators during a rushed late-night hearing.The West Australian · 27 Oct, 16:36

In this story: Krissy Barrett · Helen Haines · Australian Federal Police · Australia · Wangaratta

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem · Corrections log