Australia has revoked the visa of a South African national who was spotted participating in a neo-Nazi rally outside the New South Wales Parliament earlier this month.
The man, identified as Matthew Gruter, has lived in Australia since 2022. He was filmed taking part in an anti-Jewish demonstration organised by the National Socialist Network, a notorious neo-Nazi group. Around 60 black-clad participants were seen holding a banner that read “Abolish the Jewish lobby”, according to Australian media.
The country has experienced a surge in far-right activity, prompting the government to introduce tougher measures. Earlier this year, Australia made the Nazi salute a criminal offense with a mandatory prison sentence.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed that Mr Gruter’s visa had been canceled, stating that people on visas must abide by Australian values:
“If you are on a visa, you are a guest… If a guest shows hatred and wrecks the household, they can be told it’s time to go home,” he said.
Mr Gruter reportedly works as a civil engineer and is considered a senior member of the National Socialist Network in New South Wales, according to the Sydney Morning Herald.
During the 8 November rally, demonstrators repeatedly shouted “blood and honour”, a phrase linked to the Hitler Youth. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns condemned the gathering, calling it “a shocking display of hatred, racism, and antisemitism.”
Sarah Schwartz, executive officer of the Jewish Council of Australia, warned that neo-Nazi groups pose a danger to national cohesion. She stressed the need to distinguish between legitimate protest and acts that promote hatred.
“These are acts of hate speech, and they must be treated that way,” she said.