Calls for Deportation of Neo-Nazi Leader Thomas Sewell Intensify

Thomas Sewell, a 32-year-old New Zealand-born leader of the neo-Nazi group National Socialist Network, is facing multiple charges following an alleged violent attack on Camp Sovereignty, an Aboriginal protest site in Melbourne. The incident occurred on Sunday, September 1, 2025, when Sewell and approximately 40 men dressed in black reportedly assaulted protesters after attending an anti-immigration rally. Four individuals were injured, with two requiring hospitalization.

Sewell was arrested on September 2, 2025, outside the Melbourne Magistrates' Court, where he appeared to face charges of intimidating a police officer and breaching an intervention order. He has been charged with violent disorder, affray, and assault by kicking, among other offences. Sewell has not yet entered a plea and is remanded to appear in court again on September 3, 2025.

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In the wake of the incident, a petition to deport Sewell back to New Zealand has garnered over 50,000 signatures. Immigration Minister Tony Burke remarked that Sewell "clearly hates modern Australia" and suggested that it would not be surprising if he renounced his Australian citizenship. The petition's organizers are advocating for a change to the Australian Citizenship Act 2007 to facilitate the deportation of individuals convicted of serious hate-fueled crimes.

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Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan expressed her shock at the confrontation with Sewell during a press conference, stating, "I never expected to come face-to-face with a neo-Nazi." She emphasized her commitment to fighting against hate and discrimination, asserting, "There is no place for hate in our state." Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the events as "quite horrific" and condemned the actions of Sewell and his associates.

Critics, including Independent Senator Lidia Thorpe, have condemned the police response to the incident, arguing that authorities failed to adequately protect the Camp Sovereignty site from neo-Nazi threats. Thorpe labeled the attack as a hate crime and highlighted the need for more robust measures to safeguard vulnerable communities.

RNZ (Radio New Zealand)

While the petition for Sewell's deportation has gained significant traction, there are differing opinions on the effectiveness of current Australian laws regarding citizenship revocation for hate crimes. Some sources suggest that Sewell's New Zealand birth may complicate the deportation process, as he is understood to be an Australian citizen despite his origins.

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• "Seeing neo-Nazis cowardly walk around our streets in masks and in uniform is completely unacceptable." — Josh Burns, MP

RNZ (Radio New Zealand)

• "This is a hate crime. Camp Sovereignty is a sacred space." — Lidia Thorpe, Senator

• "I’ll continue to fight for every single Victorian and push back against this odious, evil behaviour." — Jacinta Allan, Premier

RNZ (Radio New Zealand)

The ongoing investigation into the assault at Camp Sovereignty continues, with police urging anyone with information to come forward. The outcome of Sewell's court appearances and the potential legislative changes regarding citizenship revocation for hate crimes will be closely monitored in the coming weeks.

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