Australia Charges Two Chinese Nationals in Foreign Interference Case

Post by : Saif Nasser

Australian authorities have charged two Chinese nationals with foreign interference, saying they secretly collected information about a Buddhist group in Canberra on behalf of a Chinese government security agency. The two suspects are scheduled to appear in court in the Australian capital.

According to the Australian Federal Police, the accused are a 25-year-old man and a 31-year-old woman. Investigators say they worked with another Chinese woman who was already charged in a related case last August. Police believe the group gathered information about the Canberra branch of a Buddhist organization known as Guan Yin Citta.

Officials say the investigation began last year after Australia’s domestic intelligence service, the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO), passed on information to police. After reviewing evidence, authorities decided to file formal charges under Australia’s foreign interference laws.

These laws were introduced in 2018 to deal with hidden efforts by foreign governments to influence or monitor people and groups inside Australia. The rules make it a serious crime to secretly act for a foreign power in ways that interfere with national interests or community safety. Each of the two defendants faces a charge of reckless foreign interference, which carries a maximum prison sentence of up to 15 years if they are convicted.

ASIO Director-General Mike Burgess said in a joint statement with police that foreign interference remains one of the country’s top security concerns. He warned that some foreign governments try to monitor, pressure, or intimidate members of diaspora communities living in Australia. He said such behavior is not acceptable and will not be tolerated.

Security officials say diaspora communities — people living in Australia who have family or cultural roots in other countries — should feel safe to practice their beliefs and express their views without fear. When outside governments try to secretly collect information or influence these communities, it creates fear and mistrust. That is why authorities say strong enforcement is needed.

This is only the second time Chinese nationals have been charged under Australia’s foreign interference laws. With these new cases, the total number of individuals charged under the law rises to five. Earlier cases included Australian citizens accused of working with Chinese intelligence contacts.

The Chinese embassy in Australia did not immediately comment on the new charges. In past situations, Chinese officials have rejected claims of interference and said China respects the laws of other countries.

The issue is sensitive because China is Australia’s largest trading partner. Past security disputes and legal actions have sometimes caused tension between the two countries. Experts say cases like this can affect diplomatic ties, even when they are handled through normal legal channels.

Legal experts also note that foreign interference cases are often complex. Prosecutors must show that suspects were acting for or helping a foreign government and that they did so secretly or dishonestly. Courts must review communications, money trails, and contact records to understand what really happened.

Australian authorities say the charges show that the country is serious about protecting its national security and social harmony. They also stress that charges are only accusations at this stage. The defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

The upcoming court hearings will decide how the case moves forward. For now, the matter highlights the growing challenge many countries face in dealing with hidden foreign influence while also protecting civil rights and open communities.