Joint media release with Senator the Hon Katy Gallagher and the Hon Dr Anne Aly MP
The Albanese Government has today released a new Counter-Terrorism and Violent Extremism Strategy to focus whole of society efforts to prevent politically motivated violence, alongside a record funding commitment for prevention initiatives.
Our security environment is constantly evolving and Australia must remain alert to the dynamics that contribute to violent extremism and terrorism within Australia and in our region. Prevention is our best defence, and this strategy, endorsed by all states and territories, will deliver a coordinated approach to intervention across the country.
An increasing number of people are being radicalised to violence and radicalised more quickly. Young people are particularly vulnerable. The Strategy recognises the need to address the root causes of violent extremism and the role of early intervention services for vulnerable people, such as law enforcement working hand-in-hand with health services, education providers and community services.
The Albanese Government will invest a record $106.2 million over four years in initiatives to counter violent extremism and keep our community safe. This commitment will:
- Strengthen support services
- Support and increase capability in our communities
- Deepen relationships and collaboration with industry, government agencies, academia and international partners.
The centrepiece of these new measures is the new National Support and Intervention Program; a collaborative effort with states and territories to disengage people from radicalising to violent extremism and reintegrate them successfully into the community.
The Government will also deliver a national Step Together program, informed by the New South Wales Government's existing program. Using a national website and referral service, those concerned about someone they know radicalising to violence can receive confidential online and phone support from qualified staff in real time, wherever they are in Australia.
The Government is also providing funding to ensure youth voices inform our policy and decisions on counter terrorism and violent extremism, and to continue the important work of the Youth and Mental Health Advisory Group.
The Strategy is supported by a fact sheet with advice for Australians on what they can do including:
- advice for the community in recognising signs of radicalisation to violent extremism
- advice to parents about speaking to children about violent extremism
- resources about safety in online gaming
- advice about what to do if faced by an armed attacker - Escape. Hide. Tell.
If you see something suspicious call the National Security Hotline on 1800 123 400. Reports made to the National Security Hotline can be made anonymously and are passed to the appropriate law enforcement and security agencies, or countering violent extremism intervention programs.
The Strategy and fact sheet are available at National Security.
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Home Affairs, Tony Burke MP
"The risks are new and rising, but our response is comprehensive - stronger action, targeted intervention and united across the country.
"State and Federal Governments can and must work with every community to ensure that vulnerable people are identified and turned away from violence.
"We are making a record investment in countering violent extremism through support services, strengthening our ability to counter and remove extremist content, and helping parents and caregivers through a national Step Together program, informed by the successful NSW program.
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Youth and Early Childhood Education, Anne Aly MP
"We know that young people are becoming radicalised to violent extremism faster and at a younger age - this Strategy invests in services to support young people and families.
"We want to ensure young people don't go down the path of violent extremism and fall prey to radicalising forces."
