The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has marked the successful conclusion of Operation Australis25, a nationwide security mission that ensured the safety of all Parliamentarians and candidates during the 2025 Federal Election campaign.
Running from 28 March to 3 May, the operation mobilised over 600 AFP members who delivered round-the-clock protective security — from the Prime Minister to independent candidates — at public appearances and events.
Specialist teams were deployed to respond rapidly to threats, manage intelligence, conduct investigations, and provide close personal protection. In total, more than 43,000 hours were committed to this effort.
“Operation Australis25 was a testament to the AFP’s unwavering commitment to safeguard Parliamentarians and democracy,” said Commander Protection Operations Mark McIntyre, highlighting the high coordination between AFP units and their state and territory partners.
Throughout the operation, the AFP assessed 51 reports of alleged offences, including threats made in person or online against political candidates. Ten cases were formally investigated, with four individuals already charged over election-related state offences. Investigations into several other cases remain ongoing.
Commander McIntyre confirmed that the AFP also responded to an earlier incident outside of the official operation timeframe, when a Ballarat man was charged in April 2025 for allegedly sending threatening emails to a Parliamentarian’s office.
“No significant incident or criminal conduct compromised the integrity of the election,” McIntyre said.
“The AFP takes seriously any threats targeting Federal Parliamentarians — online or physical. It is a criminal offence and carries penalties of up to 10 years’ imprisonment.”
Operation Australis25 drew on the full breadth of the AFP’s Specialist Protective Command, including tactical response, bomb and canine units, and close protection teams, ensuring candidates could campaign safely and without intimidation.
As the nation moves forward from the election, the AFP remains vigilant, with six investigations still active and two reports under evaluation. Police say more charges could follow.
McIntyre commended AFP officers and their law enforcement partners for their “unwavering dedication to upholding democracy and public safety”, particularly during a period of heightened political activity.
