An alleged neo-Nazi who took part in a rally outside the NSW parliament has been taken into immigration detention after the cancellation of his Australian visa.
Screenshot of Matthew Gruter from 9 News Instagram video
Matthew Gruter, a South African national who has lived in Australia for about three years, was detained by Australian Border Force officers at his North Sydney home early this morning. He has been moved to Villawood detention centre while arrangements are made for his removal from the country, as reported by 9 News.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed the visa cancellation, saying visitors to Australia are expected to uphold basic standards of conduct. He said Gruter will remain in detention until he chooses to leave voluntarily or is formally deported.
Gruter has signalled that he intends to pursue every available legal challenge in an attempt to stay in Australia. He works as a civil engineer and has reportedly travelled extensively with his wife.
Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong condemned the ideology linked to the group involved in the rally, saying such views have no place in the country. She emphasised that freedom of expression does not protect hateful or divisive behaviour targeting members of the community.
The rally in question took place on 8 November, when around 60 members of the National Socialist Network gathered outside NSW parliament with signs calling for the abolition of Jewish advocacy groups. Police had approved the protest after receiving an application from the organisers, although senior police leadership and the NSW Premier were not informed until after it occurred.
The incident has prompted calls for stricter regulations and a review of how the demonstration was permitted to proceed in such a prominent location without timely notification to top officials.
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