2021-08-23
The Greens say that reports of far-right extremists and neo-Nazis in the Australian military should not come as a surprise, but do further spur the need for a national plan to tackle far-right extremism and white supremacy.
Senator Mehreen Faruqi, Greens spokesperson for Anti-racism, said:
“I’m sure I’m not the only one terrified by the idea of organised fascists with access to military training and weaponry. But these reports are hardly surprising.
“In many countries, including the US, Germany and Britain, we’ve seen clear and indisputable evidence of far-right individuals and groups infiltrating national militaries and police.
“White supremacy poses an existential threat to multicultural Australia. It can’t be denied and it has to be dealt with head-on.
“Government has had its head in the sand on this for far too long. We clearly need a national plan to tackle far right-extremism and a renewed national anti-racism strategy that encompasses organisations and individuals.”
Senator Jordon Steele-John, Greens spokesperson for Peace and Disarmament, said:
“A culture of white supremacy within the Australian Defence Force is totally unacceptable and must be tackled head on.
“These reports outlining a culture within the ADF that has allowed Neo-Nazis to exist within it are alarming. We urge the ADF to take urgent action to address the culture and the ADF Leadership should be held to account for allowing this culture to exist.”