Sydney man charged with violent terrorism, child abuse material possession

A Sydney man will front court on Friday after a horrifying alleged discovery was made after police investigated the attendance of a right-wing extremist gathering.

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) allege the 25-year-old man attended a right-wing extremist gathering in Marsfield, NSW, with further inquiries leading authorities to believe he may be in possession of illicit material.

“Search warrants were executed at various locations in February, April and August, 2025. Items seized included mobile phones which allegedly contained violent extremist and child abuse material,” an AFP spokesperson said.

Following forensic review of the devices, police allegedly found material “including video artefacts of terrorist attacks and videos depicting minors performing sexual acts.”

The AFP allege the man is a member of multiple online chat groups where the materials were shared.

On Thursday, the AFP executed a search warrant in Holsworthy, later charging the man with possession of violent extremist material and possession of child abuse material.

In a damning statement, AFP Detective Superintendent Matthew Byles said possessing violent extremist and child abuse material had no place in Australian society.

“Possessing this material is not a victimless crime and only fuels further dissemination and the production of more harmful content,” Det Supt Byles said.

“Offenders should be warned – everything online can be traced, and you cannot remain anonymous behind your computer screens forever.

“The AFP will not hesitate to lay charges if we identify individuals who possess this dangerous, illicit and harmful material.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

If you or someone you know needs help, contact 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).

Young people seeking support can phone beyondblue on 1300 22 4636 or go to headspace.org.au.