Western Australia Premier Roger Cook has called for an end to divisive language in politics following the arrest of a 20-year-old man accused of preparing a terrorist attack, allegedly motivated by white supremacy.
Terrorism Charges and Calls for Unity
Jayson Joseph Michaels, of Bindoon, appeared in the Perth Magistrates Court on Friday, facing charges of acting in preparation for a terrorist act, possessing a prohibited weapon, two firearms offences, and using a carriage service to menace or harass. Police allege Michaels was motivated by white supremacy.
Cook joined Muslim leaders and the WA Police Commissioner at a Perth mosque on Saturday, urging political leaders to “lower the temperature” of debate, particularly regarding immigration. He echoed Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s statement that political leaders have a responsibility to avoid fueling bigotry.
“Stop the language of division, which you see entering the mainstream political debate today – dog whistling under the guise of immigration policy,” Cook said. “People who would demonise whole sections of our community. It is not acceptable, and we must all, as a community and as one, condemn it and stand up to it.”
Concerns Over Divisive Rhetoric
Imam Mohammed Shakib of the Perth mosque stated that divisive rhetoric in politics “has to stop.” He criticized the demonization of entire faith groups, referencing recent comments by One Nation leader Pauline Hanson, who suggested there were no good Muslims.
“How on earth can you have a certain politician that demonises an entire faith group? 1.8bn [people]. That’s a quarter of humanity,” Shakib said. He questioned the lack of outrage when similar statements are made about Islam compared to other faiths.
When asked if he was referring to Hanson’s comments, Shakib responded, “I think it’s not rocket science, I was referring to this.”
Investigation and Radicalization
Cook emphasized that terrorism is “an act of hatred, of division … making us afraid to be who we are” and pledged his government’s commitment to combating it in Western Australia.
WA Police Commissioner Col Blanch stated that while white supremacy is not “prevalent” in the community, a “very, very small minority” seeks to cause harm. Police discovered a “manifesto-style document” outlining plans for a nationalist and racist act of violent extremism with mass casualties during a search of Michaels’ home in Bindoon, approximately 75km north of Perth.
Police allege Michaels was part of a group chat on Telegram with other Australians and individuals overseas. Michaels appears to be the only West Australian in the group of white supremacists “talking about their hate for other people in our community.”
Blanch noted that Michaels was not previously known to police and that his family is cooperating with the investigation. He also highlighted the importance of providing care and support to young men who may be vulnerable to online radicalization.
Michaels was refused bail and is scheduled to reappear in court on March 23.
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