The US Embassy in Australia has voiced concern over reports of alleged China-linked transnational repression, backing Australia’s efforts to protect people from intimidation and foreign interference.
“Reports of China-linked transnational repression targeting people in Australia are deeply concerning,” the embassy said.
“As Australia’s close security partner, the U.S. stands with Australians in defending individual freedoms, national sovereignty, and the right to live free from intimidation – in their own country.”
The statement comes amid warnings from Australian Federal Police (AFP) officials that foreign state actors may allegedly exploit diaspora networks to pressure, intimidate or silence people living in Australia.
In an exclusive interview with news.com.au, AFP Commander Matthew Gale described how alleged foreign interference can begin with seemingly routine attempts to influence community leaders before escalating into harassment or threats when individuals refuse to comply.
“It can start off under the guise of influence.”
He explained that foreign actors may approach influential community figures to promote particular political views or causes, with pressure potentially escalating when people resist.
“Those behaviours are designed to silence, coerce and control people in Australia.”
Gale warned that threats against relatives overseas can be used to pressure people into changing their political or social activities in Australia.
He stressed that while foreign governments can engage in legitimate diplomacy, covert, deceptive or coercive conduct intended to manipulate Australian political processes crosses into foreign interference.
Australian authorities have publicly identified foreign interference and espionage as national security concerns, with investigations and court proceedings involving alleged or proven activities linked to China and Russia.
The AFP works with the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) and international intelligence partners, including those within the Five Eyes network, to investigate suspected foreign interference.
Gale said foreign actors could exploit trusted relationships within diaspora communities to exert pressure on individuals, sometimes without the wider community recognising what is happening.
Several cases have brought foreign interference concerns before Australian courts.
Alexander Csergo became the first person convicted under Section 92.3 of the Criminal Code for reckless foreign interference. He was sentenced to three-and-a-half years in prison after providing reports to individuals identified in court proceedings as Chinese intelligence officers.
Former Melbourne community leader Di Sanh “Sunny” Duong was also jailed after becoming the first person prosecuted under Section 92.4 for preparing for a foreign interference offence. The case involved an attempt to cultivate influence with former federal minister Alan Tudge.
Separately, a Brisbane-based husband and wife were arrested in 2024 and charged in connection with an alleged espionage conspiracy involving sensitive Australian defence information. The allegations remain subject to the criminal proceedings.
These cases illustrate the range of activities authorities investigate, from covert attempts to obtain sensitive information to alleged efforts to cultivate political influence.
Gale said public exposure of foreign interference cases could help encourage affected communities to come forward.
He urged people not to accept threats, harassment or coercion as normal and encouraged anyone with relevant information to contact authorities.
“We want everyone to enjoy the freedoms of Australia without the concern of having someone from another country coercing, intimidating, threatening or causing harm.”
Anyone who suspects foreign interference can contact Australia’s National Security Hotline on 1800 123 400. Reports can be made anonymously.
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