Australian politicians warn threats are at highest in a generation

Donald Trump As America reckons with its latest chapter of violence, Australian lawmakers and law enforcement have turned their attention to here.

Seasoned politicians are warning threats are at their highest rate in a generation – and more volatility lies ahead.

There are calls to consider better protections for Australian politicians in light of the attempted assassination of Donald Trump in the US. 

Protesters held a peaceful picket outside Home Affairs Minister Jim Chalmers’ office.

The demonstration was a welcome change from vandalism and hate of recent months.

“We need ongoing vigilance, not violence,” Chalmers said.

But threats, particularly online and anonymous, are still common.

Security agencies are facing increased political tensions with wars in the Middle East and Ukraine and with high-profile events on the horizon.

Next year Australia will vote.

And while recent campaign violence has been limited to eggs, our allies have not been so lucky.

MP Jo Cox was killed in the UK during Brexit and former PM Shinzo Abe was shot at during a campaign speech in Japan.

“Clearly there are implications for Australia,” Deputy Liberal Leader Sussan Ley said

Twenty years ago, as a Prince, Charles was charged.

New South Wales Premier John Fahey stepped in, with his contemporary tonight praising John Howard.

“Potentially one of the best things any government did was cracking down on semi automatic weapons,” NSW Premier Chris Minns said.

Australia’s intelligence agencies monitor the threat of homegrown violence, as well as international groups hoping to turn Australians against each other

The nation hopes former acts of vandalism don’t become future acts of violence.