A 17-year-old boy has been charged by the Victorian Joint Counter Terrorism Team (JCTT) with allegedly collecting manuals, guides and material promoting ISIS-inspired terrorism.
Investigations began after intelligence indicated an ISIS flag destined for an address in Melbourne's inner-city was imported into Australia. Further inquiries conducted into the consignee details allegedly led police to identify the boy as the intended recipient.
A search warrant was executed at that address on 24 March 2026, with officers seizing a mobile phone and laptop, which will undergo further forensic examination.
The teenager has been charged with one count of collecting or making documents that facilitate terrorist acts, contrary to section 101.5 of the Criminal Code (Cth), and one count of importing a prohibited import. These charges carry a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. He faced a children's court where he was remanded to reappear at a later date.
The case reflects a significant shift in Australia's security landscape. About 20% of ASIO's priority counter-terrorism cases involve minors. Since 2020, Australian authorities have investigated 37 individuals aged 17 or younger for violent extremism.
The Australian Federal Police point out that every single one of the counter-terrorism cases in Australia this year have involved minors or very young adults. Over the past four years, the AFP and its police partners have conducted 35 counter-terrorism investigations involving minors, with the youngest child being just 12.
Research suggests online platforms play a significant role. According to Australia's new Counter-Terrorism and Violent Extremism Strategy (2025), there is continued growth of youth radicalisation online, which increases exposure to, or engagement with, terrorist and violent extremist material. For young people who have grown up online, social media can form part of the dangerous environment that exposes them to recruitment and radicalisation, with relationships formed online playing a key role.
Experts emphasise the complex nature of youth radicalisation. Radicalisation often exploits young people's unmet needs for significance, identity, and community. Successful prevention requires creating legitimate pathways to meet those needs: community programmes, mentorship, mental health support embedded in schools, and opportunities for young people to contribute meaningfully to society.
For those concerned about radicalisation, individuals can call the National Security Hotline on 1800 123 400 if they suspect someone is being radicalised online or in person.