One Nation leader targeted in online posts; Australian Federal Police pursue cases amid rising concerns over violence against politicians.
Australian authorities continue to investigate a series of death threats directed at One Nation leader and federal senator Pauline Hanson, with a Perth man now facing court over alleged online threats to kill her.
Anton Raymond Illich, 47, of Bayswater in Western Australia, appeared in Perth Magistrates Court in late August 2026 charged with two counts of using a carriage service to make a threat to kill or cause serious harm. Police allege he made three Facebook posts on 3 July, including one on a One Nation members and supporters page in which he wrote that he would “hunt her down and kill her.”
Death Threat Case Against Pauline Hanson:
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) launched an investigation after receiving a report of an online threat against a federal parliamentarian on 6 July. Within 11 days, officers identified Illich and executed a search warrant at his home. He was charged later that month. In court, Illich, who represented himself, described the posts as “stupid” and “crazy,” saying he made them in an attempt to have his Facebook account shut down. He maintained he had no intent to carry out any threat and indicated he intended to plead guilty. The matter is expected to proceed to a higher court. Illich was granted bail with a condition that he not contact Hanson and is due to reappear in October.
The case forms part of a broader pattern of threats against Hanson and other Australian politicians. Hanson and her office have previously reported receiving messages containing threats of physical and sexual violence, including statements such as “I’m going to kill you” and “Your protection won’t protect you forever.” Her daughter, Tasmanian Senator Lee Hanson, has also said she and her children have received death threats linked to her mother’s political profile. Hanson has publicly called for enhanced security arrangements, stating that even one unstable individual could pose a serious risk.
AFP Steps Up Security for Threatened Politicians:
AFP data has shown a significant rise in reports of violent or menacing threats against federal parliamentarians in recent years, nearly doubling in some reporting periods. In response, the force has established dedicated National Security Investigations teams to address threats to social cohesion and public officials. Officials have emphasised that threats against elected representatives will not be tolerated, with AFP Acting Inspector Fleur Jennings stating that public officials “deserve the ability to carry out their duties without facing the threat of harm.”
Hanson, a long-time critic of high immigration levels and certain aspects of multiculturalism, has faced sustained opposition and security concerns throughout her political career. Security measures around her have been reviewed and, according to reports, increased in response to the volume of threats. Authorities stress that protection assessments are made independently by the AFP based on risk, rather than political considerations.
The investigation into threats against Hanson remains active, with police urging the public to report any information about potential violence or harassment directed at politicians. The maximum penalty for the offences Illich faces is 10 years’ imprisonment on each count.