Media Release
NSW man charged over alleged menacing online message towards a federal parliamentarian
A NSW man is set to appear before Gilgandra Local Court in May (12 May, 2026) charged for using social media to allegedly menace, harass and offend a federal parliamentarian.
The AFP charged the man, 55, today (18 March, 2026) after an investigation into a social media comment which allegedly menaced the federal parliamentarian.
AFP officers executed a search warrant at a Gilgandra property with the assistance of NSW Police, who suspended the man’s firearms licence and seized two legally registered firearms.
It will be alleged that in September 2025, the man used a social media application to send a menacing message to the federal parliamentarian.
The man was issued with a court attendance notice to face a charge of using a carriage service to menace, harass or cause offence, contrary to section 474.17(1) of the Criminal Code (Cth).
This offence carries a maximum penalty of five years’ imprisonment.
AFP Detective Acting Inspector Andrew Bell said the AFP took allegations of menacing and harassing behaviour extremely seriously, particularly when directed at those serving the community.
“Every person engaged in public service deserves to feel safe while carrying out their duties,” Det-a/Insp Bell said.
AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett announced the establishment of NSI teams in October, 2025, to target groups and individuals causing high levels of harm to Australia’s social cohesion.
