Australian Visa Revoked Following Protest Participation
Matthew Gruter, a South African national, has had his Australian visa canceled. This action by the Australian government follows his documented attendance at a protest held earlier this month outside the New South Wales Parliament.
Protest Details and Participants
The protest, which occurred on November 8, was organized by the National Socialist Network. Mr. Gruter was observed among approximately 60 individuals, all dressed in black attire. The group displayed a banner that read "Abolish the Jewish lobby." During the event, participants reportedly chanted "blood and honour," a slogan associated with the Hitler Youth. According to reports from the Sydney Morning Herald, Mr. Gruter holds a senior position within the National Socialist Network in New South Wales. The rally lasted less than 20 minutes and was legally authorized.
Official Response and Background
Australia's Home Affairs Minister, Tony Burke, confirmed the cancellation of Mr. Gruter's visa. Minister Burke stated: "If you are on a visa, you are a guest. If you're a citizen, you're a full member of the Australian family. Like with any household, if a guest turns up to show hatred and wreck the household, they can be told it's time to go home." Mr. Gruter, a civil engineer, had moved to Australia with his wife in 2022, as reported by ABC News. This event occurs in a context where the Australian government recently implemented legislation this year, making the Nazi salute punishable by a mandatory prison term.