As Australia heads toward the federal election, escalating incidents of violence, intimidation, and vandalism are drawing serious concern across New South Wales. Police have launched multiple investigations into targeted attacks on political volunteers, campaign materials, and offices, threatening the integrity and safety of the democratic process.
In Eden-Monaro, a Liberal campaign truck displaying a political advertisement was defaced with human faeces smeared across its surface, including door handles. Authorities confirmed an investigation into the alleged act of “intentional damage.” The same electorate also saw a hand-delivered threat to a Coalition office warning of arson if operations continued.
In Bennelong, a highly contested seat, video footage captured a man aggressively damaging Liberal signage and verbally abusing volunteers. A 30-year-old was arrested and charged with intimidation following the altercation. Meanwhile, in Paterson, the Liberal party reported one of its volunteers being physically assaulted at a polling station. NSW Police have launched inquiries into both incidents.
Political signage has also become a target of hate-fueled vandalism. In Grayndler, campaign posters for the Liberal candidate were spray-painted with swastikas, echoing similar recent attacks on Greens signs. Additionally, tensions spilled into violence in a separate incident involving a Trumpet of Patriots volunteer who was physically assaulted by an unidentified individual upset over immigration policies.
Concerns over cultural intimidation have also emerged. In the Victorian electorate of Bruce, Labor has accused a Liberal volunteer of invoking the name of historical Afghan figure Abdur Rahman Khan—linked to atrocities against the Hazara people—in an attempt to coerce members of the Afghan diaspora into supporting the Liberal party.
Jeff Pope, the electoral commissioner, condemned the rise in hostile behavior: “These isolated acts of aggression and intimidation undermine the democratic process. Respectful conduct is not just expected—it is essential.”
While the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) does not hold enforcement powers, it is working closely with law enforcement to ensure safe and lawful election campaigning.