Josh Burns MP pointed out the relentless online harassment he faces soared after thieves ransacked his office in Canberra. During the hearings, he spoke about a staggering flood of abusive messages targeting his heritage and personal life. Some of these messages were especially vicious, with individuals making horrific threats to destroy buildings or assault him directly.
Lawmakers also pointed to distressing reports of similar threats sent to other policymakers . A high-profile female MP, whose partner is of Jewish background , endured relentless antisemitic abuse. Now, MPs are calling for urgent legislation to clamp down on cyber-hate , while urging platforms to regulate content that fuels such behaviour.