Neo-Nazi Groups in Australia Adapt Tactics, Embrace Coded Symbolism Amidst New Hate Speech Laws
Despite a claimed disbandment in response to Australia’s strengthened hate speech legislation, remnants of the Neo-Nazi National Socialist Network (NSN) are signaling their continued commitment to extremist ideology and preparing to reappear at public events like Australia Day rallies. The new laws, expanding prohibitions on hate symbols to include those of banned groups, are prompting far-right extremists to adopt increasingly subtle methods of communication and identification, posing a significant challenge to law enforcement and researchers.
The recent legislative changes build upon existing federal bans on Nazi salutes and certain Nazi symbols. However, experts warn that the true test of the legislation will lie in its ability to decipher and address the complex web of coded imagery and symbolism now favored by these groups.
The Evolution of Hate: From Swastikas to Sonnenrads
While the swastika remains the most recognizable symbol of Nazism, groups like the NSN are increasingly turning to more obscure iconography to signal their beliefs. One such symbol is the Black Sun, also known as a sonnenrad or sun wheel. This symbol, originally incorporated into the floor of a castle by Heinrich Himmler, a key architect of the Holocaust, has become a staple among Neo-Nazis globally, including the perpetrator of the Christchurch shooting.
Illustrating this trend, a promotional video featuring former Victorian NSN leader Tim Lutze showcased a sweatshirt emblazoned with a drawing of Australian folk icon Ned Kelly overlaid with the sonnenrad. “Neo-Nazis may still identify themselves in some way whilst denying the fact that they are a formal organisation,” explained Kieran Hardy, a far-right researcher at Griffith University.
Ancient Runes and Modern Extremism
The adaptation of historical and cultural symbols extends beyond the sonnenrad. At a rally in Townsville in August 2025, speakers utilized a bullhorn adorned with ancient Nordic Futhark runes – some of which were appropriated by the Nazis and are now being revived by Neo-Nazis. Federal MP Bob Katter, photographed speaking into the microphone, later stated he was unaware of the runes’ “nasty connotations,” highlighting the insidious nature of these coded signals. The microphone was reportedly held by a then-member of the NSN.
According to Dr. Hardy, this fascination with ancient symbols is rooted in an obsession with Aryan culture, specifically a romanticized vision of blonde-haired, blue-eyed races and Viking heritage. Internal communications obtained by ABC NEWS Verify reveal NSN leadership described this Anglo-Saxon imagery as a “racist aesthetic style” for their planned “White Australia” political party. A photograph shows a NSN member wearing a replica of the Sutton Hoo Helmet, a significant artifact from Anglo-Saxon England, at a group gathering.
Dog Whistles and Quasi-Uniforms: The Language of Extremism
Beyond visual symbols, Neo-Nazis employ numerical codes and seemingly innocuous branding to communicate their ideology. The number 14 serves as shorthand for a 14-word white supremacist slogan, while 88 is code for “Heil Hitler” (H being the eighth letter of the alphabet), and 18 represents Adolf Hitler’s initials. These codes were observed at rallies, with individuals displaying the numbers tattooed on their bodies.
Perhaps surprisingly, the Norwegian outdoor brand Helly Hansen has become entangled in this network. Known Neo-Nazis in Australia have adopted the brand’s black jackets, with the prominent “HH” lettering functioning as a quasi-uniform. Dr. Hardy emphasized the legal challenges this presents, stating, “These sorts of things make it very challenging because the government can’t start outlawing numbers, or Helly Hansen jackets, or other things that represent this…Somebody could wear a Helly Hansen jacket quite innocently.”
The Road Ahead: Underground and Undeterred?
Despite the crackdown on overt displays of hate, experts believe the threat posed by these groups remains substantial. “I don’t think anyone thinks that they’ll just stop there, they’ll renounce or stop any of their activities,” Dr. Hardy stated. There is concern that increased scrutiny will simply drive these groups further underground, making them more difficult to monitor.
While the new legislation aims to curb the spread of hate speech, the adaptability of extremist groups suggests a continuous cat-and-mouse game between law enforcement and those seeking to propagate their ideologies. The coming months will be critical in determining whether the government’s efforts can effectively counter the evolving tactics of Australia’s far-right extremist networks.
