Youth terror cases surge with 32 of 37 prosecuted in past two years
Police say 32 of 37 youth terrorism cases since 2020 were prosecuted in just the past two years.
Australian Federal Police warn of a surge in children being radicalised online. Minors now account for 40 per cent of all active counterterrorism cases this year.
Of 37 youths prosecuted for terrorism offences since 2020, 32 were charged in the past two years. This shows rapid acceleration.
Two children were charged in Darwin last week for plotting a mass casualty event. Commander Paula Hudson said young people can be exposed to violent extremist material within 23 minutes of going online.
A government ban on under-16s accessing social media from December 2025 has not slowed the rise. The online environment remains a significant radicalisation pathway.
Why it mattersThe surge in youth terror cases reveals a critical gap in online safety protections and early intervention strategies.
AustraliaParents and educators across Australia should watch for warning signs of online radicalisation, including withdrawn behaviour and fixated talk about social issues.
