Chinese Citizen Charged in Australia's Foreign Interference Case

An Australian permanent resident was charged with collecting information for China about a Buddhist association. This marks the first accusation of foreign interference targeting the general public since Australia's 2018 laws. The suspect is remanded in custody and faces up to 15 years in prison.

An Australian court has charged a Chinese citizen under the country's foreign interference laws for allegedly gathering information on a local Buddhist association. The woman, an Australian permanent resident from Canberra, is the third person charged since the laws' inception, marking the first case involving the general public.

The charges focus on her alleged covert activities on behalf of China's Public Security Bureau, targeting the Guan Yin Citta association, banned in China. The Australian Federal Police disclosed limited details about her intentions.

Authorities emphasize the seriousness of foreign interference, viewing it as a threat to democracy. While the Chinese Embassy has yet to comment, this case follows prior charges against individuals accused of similar activities, as Australia continues to address its diplomatic tensions with China.

(With inputs from agencies.)