Two Teenagers Charged with Possessing Violent Extremist Material in Moree

Two teenagers from Moree, New South Wales, have been charged with possessing violent extremist material following a joint investigation by the New South Wales Joint Counter Terrorism Team (JCTT) and the Australian Federal Police (AFP). The investigation began in December 2025 when police received information that a teenager was allegedly accessing extremist material online.

Moree: Two teenagers charged by NSW JCTT over alleged extremist material

On March 27, 2026, police executed a search warrant at a Moree home, seizing a mobile phone, a ballistic-style vest, and several notebooks. A 15-year-old boy was charged at that time and remains before the courts. Following forensic examinations of the seized items, further searches were conducted on April 2, 2026, at two Moree residences, where additional handwritten notes and literature allegedly containing extremist references were found.

The Guardian

The 15-year-old was charged with using a carriage service to transmit violent extremist material and knowingly collecting or making documents connected with terrorism. A 16-year-old boy was also arrested and charged with using a carriage service to possess violent extremist material. Both teenagers have been refused bail and are scheduled to appear before Parramatta Children's Court.

The GuardianDaily MailSky News AustraliaMoree: Two teenagers charged by NSW JCTT over alleged extremist material

Authorities have stated that the charges relate specifically to the alleged possession and creation of extremist material, emphasizing that there is no ongoing threat to the community. The JCTT, which includes members from the NSW Police, AFP, Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO), and the NSW Crime Commission, has urged anyone with information about extremist activities to contact the National Security Hotline.

Moree: Two teenagers charged by NSW JCTT over alleged extremist material

While the investigation has been met with support from law enforcement, some community members have expressed concerns regarding the potential for overreach in monitoring online activities of teenagers. Critics argue that the balance between national security and personal freedoms must be carefully maintained.

Daily Mail

There are no significant discrepancies in the reports regarding the charges or the timeline of events. However, details about the specific content of the extremist material have not been disclosed, leaving some gaps in understanding the full scope of the investigation.

The Guardian

• “The investigation began in December when New England police received information a teenager was allegedly accessing extremist material online.” — NSW Police Statement

The Guardian

• “Authorities have stated the charges relate to the alleged possession and creation of material, and there is no indication of any specific or imminent threat to the community.” — NSW JCTT Official

Teenagers charged following counter terrorism investigation in Moree

• “Anyone with information about extremist activity is urged to contact the National Security Hotline on 1800 123 400.” — NSW Police Statement

Teenagers charged following counter terrorism investigation in Moree

This case highlights ongoing concerns regarding youth engagement with extremist ideologies and the measures law enforcement is taking to address such threats in Australia.

Daily Mail