Damien Richardson Faces Hate Charges

Melbourne Event Sparks Outrage Ex-Neighbours Actor Damien Richardson Faces Charges Over Alleged Nazi Salute at Far-Right Melbourne Event.

Former Neighbours star Damien Richardson, renowned for his role as Gary Canning on the beloved Australian soap opera in 2014, has come under fire after being accused of making a Nazi salute at a controversial event in Melbourne. The 54-year-old actor is now facing legal action under Australia's strict anti-hate symbol laws, which aim to combat hate speech and symbols of intolerance.

The alleged incident took place in September during a meeting hosted by the National Workers Alliance, a group promoting the preservation of “Western culture and identity.” Richardson reportedly delivered a speech highlighting his concerns about what he described as societal shifts targeting men and traditional values.

“There’s a war on men,” Richardson asserted during the event. “Initially, I believed it was an attack on Western traditions and values, but it has become clear it’s an anti-white male agenda.” Following this statement, he allegedly performed the prohibited Nazi salute, an action punishable by up to 12 months in prison or a fine of $11,000 AUD (£5,620) under New South Wales law.

Event organizer Matt Trihey denied any links to extremist organizations, including the National Socialist Network (NSN). “Neither Damien nor I have ever been associated with Nazi groups,” Trihey clarified. He also criticized media coverage, calling it “riddled with misinformation.”

The case comes amidst heightened scrutiny of far-right movements in Australia. Just months prior, self-proclaimed Nazi Jacob Hersant was sentenced to one month in jail for performing the same gesture and promoting white supremacy. Richardson’s charges are likely to reignite debates about the efficacy and enforcement of anti-hate symbol laws.

Damien Richardson is scheduled to appear before Moorabbin Magistrates’ Court in March 2025 to face the allegations. Legal experts predict that this case will play a pivotal role in shaping public discourse around hate speech and extremist ideologies in Australia.