Australian authorities have revoked the visa of a South African man who participated in a neo-Nazi demonstration outside the New South Wales state parliament earlier this month.
Matthew Gruter, who has resided in Australia since 2022, was identified among those attending an anti-Jewish rally organized by the National Socialist Network, a group recognized for its neo-Nazi affiliations.
According to reports from Australian media, Gruter joined approximately 60 men dressed in black as they unfurled a banner reading "Abolish the Jewish lobby."
This incident comes at a time when Australia is experiencing an increase in far-right extremism. In response to such activities, the government introduced legislation earlier this year that makes performing the Nazi salute punishable by mandatory imprisonment.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed Gruter’s visa cancellation and emphasized Australia's position on guest conduct:"If you are on a visa, you are a guest," Burke stated. "If you're a citizen, you're a full member of the Australian family.
Like with any household, if a guest turns up to show hatred and wreck the household, they can be told it's time to go home."
According to ABC News, Gruter emigrated to Australia with his wife and works as a civil engineer.
The Sydney Morning Herald also reported that he is regarded as a senior member of the National Socialist Network within New South Wales.
The rally on November 8 saw demonstrators repeatedly chant “blood and honour,” a phrase closely associated with Hitler Youth propaganda during Nazi Germany, ABC News reported.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns condemned the gathering, describing it as “a shocking display of hatred and racism and antisemitism” that lasted roughly twenty minutes.
Sarah Schwartz, executive officer of the Jewish Council of Australia, spoke to ABC News about concerns regarding extremist groups threatening multicultural harmony in Australia.
She highlighted the need for clarity between legitimate protest actions and what she described as "hateful stunts" by neo-Nazi organizations.
“They're acts of hate speech, and they should be considered as such,” Schwartz added.
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