Australia has formally banned the Islamist organisation Hizb ut-Tahrir under newly enacted hate group legislation, marking the first time authorities have used the country’s expanded legal framework to outlaw a group that falls short of the existing terrorist designation threshold.

The decision follows recommendations from Australia’s domestic intelligence agency, the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation, which advised the government that the group met the legal criteria to be listed as a prohibited organisation under the new laws.

The designation was approved through the federal government’s updated process for targeting groups that promote hatred or increase the risk of communal violence.

Under the new rules, membership in, support for, or recruitment on behalf of Hizb ut-Tahrir now constitutes a criminal offence.

Individuals found directing the activities of the organisation or providing significant assistance could face prison sentences of up to fifteen years.

Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said the move sends a clear signal that Australia will not tolerate organisations that spread extremist rhetoric or undermine social cohesion.

He stated that the new legislative framework was specifically designed to prevent groups from promoting division or radicalisation while remaining just below the threshold required for a terrorist listing.

The prohibition comes after a broader legislative push by the federal government to strengthen national security measures and combat extremist ideologies.

The reforms were introduced following a deadly attack in Sydney’s Bondi area, which triggered nationwide debate over hate speech, radicalisation and public safety.

Australia’s parliament subsequently passed sweeping laws that include stronger criminal penalties for hate speech, tighter gun regulations and new powers allowing authorities to designate organisations as “hate groups.” The legal changes allow bans even where a group has not been formally classified as a terrorist organisation but is deemed to contribute to hatred or the risk of politically motivated violence.

Hizb ut-Tahrir is a global political movement founded in the mid-twentieth century that advocates the creation of a unified Islamic caliphate governed by Islamic law.

The group maintains branches in multiple countries and has long been controversial due to its rhetoric and ideological goals.

Several countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany, Egypt and Indonesia, have previously prohibited the organisation.

Prior to the ban taking effect, the Australian branch removed its online presence and signalled that it may challenge the decision in court.

Representatives of the group have argued that it does not promote violence and have indicated they may pursue legal action against the listing.

Government officials maintain that the prohibition is aimed at safeguarding community harmony and preventing extremist messaging from fostering hostility or radicalisation.

The move places Australia alongside a growing number of countries that have restricted the activities of Hizb ut-Tahrir as part of broader efforts to counter extremist movements.