Victoria
Inquiry hears government funded podcast hosted deported conspiracy theorist
A Royal Commission has heard a government funded podcast interviewed US conspiracy theorist Sneako before his deportation from Australia.
The Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion has heard evidence regarding a government funded podcast that hosted an interview with a controversial United States conspiracy theorist prior to his deportation from Australia.
According to a wire report, the inquiry was told that the commentator, known online as Sneako, was platformed by an Islamic-themed podcast. The program in question had previously received a government grant, raising concerns about the oversight of public funding for digital media platforms.
During the proceedings, the broadcaster and social media personality was described as a vector for antisemitism. Sneako, whose real name is Nicolas Kenn De Balinthazy, has been banned from several major social media platforms for violating hate speech policies, though he continues to maintain a significant online following.
The commission was told that the interview took place shortly before Australian authorities deported him. The exact details surrounding the visa cancellation and the timeline of his deportation were not fully detailed in the hearing, and it remains unconfirmed which specific government department or agency administered the grant to the podcast.
Critics have questioned the vetting processes used by government bodies when distributing grants to independent media creators. Representatives at the commission expressed concern that public money could inadvertently support platforms that amplify figures associated with hate speech and conspiracy theories.
It is currently unclear whether the government will seek to recover the funds or if future grant guidelines will be tightened in response to the controversy.
The inquiry is expected to examine further submissions regarding online radicalisation and the role of social media influencers in spreading antisemitic rhetoric in Australia.
This report draws on original reporting by Wire report.
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