Australia Charges Two Chinese Nationals With Foreign Interference

Australian authorities have charged two Chinese nationals with Australia foreign interference charges, underscoring Canberra’s continued use of foreign interference laws Australia to counter alleged covert activity linked to foreign governments.

The two accused, a 25-year-old man and a 31-year-old woman, appeared in the Australian Capital Territory Magistrates Court in Canberra on Tuesday, making this a key Canberra court foreign interference case.

Prosecutors allege they recklessly engaged in foreign interference by collecting information on a Buddhist organisation operating in Australia for the benefit of a Chinese government security agency, adding to ongoing Chinese espionage allegations Australia.

• Australia charges two Chinese nationals under foreign interference laws
• Canberra court hears foreign interference case linked to Chinese agency
• ASIO-backed probe highlights national security concerns in Australia

According to the Australian Federal Police, the Australian Federal Police investigation alleges the pair worked with another Chinese national who was charged in August last year. Investigators say the group gathered information on members and activities of a Canberra-based Buddhist organisation and shared it with contacts linked to Chinese authorities, raising concerns over foreign influence operations Australia. Police allege the conduct took place over an extended period.

Each defendant faces one count of reckless foreign interference, an offence that carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison under Australia national security laws 2018. The court granted bail, and the matter was adjourned to a later date.

The AFP said the investigation followed a referral from the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation, reflecting an ASIO national security warning about covert activity. Search warrants executed in 2025 allegedly uncovered material supporting the charges. Authorities said inquiries remain ongoing and further charges have not been ruled out.

ASIO Director-General Mike Burgess has previously warned that foreign intelligence services are increasingly targeting diaspora communities, citing cases of diaspora surveillance Australia involving monitoring, intimidation, and information gathering.

The charges are among a small number brought under Australia’s foreign interference regime and represent only the second known case involving Chinese nationals charged in Australia under the legislation.

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China’s embassy in Canberra did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The case adds pressure to China Australia relations, as Canberra continues to scrutinise Chinese government interference claims it views as risks to national security and community safety.