Thu Sep 12 00:26:39 UTC 2024: ## Crikey Exposes Aussie Links to Far-Right Figures

**Crikey, an independent Australian news source, reports on alarming connections between Australian politicians and far-right figures internationally.**

In a recent article, Crikey highlights the praise heaped upon former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott by Björn Höcke, a leading figure in Germany’s far-right AfD party. Höcke has been repeatedly convicted of using Nazi slogans and has made controversial statements about Germany’s Holocaust memorial. Despite this, Höcke cites Abbott’s “No Way” campaign against illegal immigration in 2015-2016 as an example of strong leadership.

The article also exposes the ties of Australian business figures to Donald Trump’s political circle. Michael Sharpe, CEO of the AUKUS Forum, a network launched by former ministers Joel Fitzgibbon and Arthur Sinodinos, was photographed wearing a “Make America Great Again” hat at Trump Tower. This connection raises concerns about potential influence from Trump’s campaign on Australian business interests.

Crikey further reveals the ongoing influence of former Liberal Party figures in current Australian politics. Pat Mesiti, a former Hillsong minister who pleaded guilty to assaulting his wife, has been hosting events featuring former Speaker Bronwyn Bishop and former Foreign Affairs Minister Alexander Downer. These events promise to “reveal the truth behind the government’s huge financial, geopolitical and economic cover-ups,” raising concerns about the potential for misinformation and the perpetuation of harmful narratives.

Finally, Crikey delves into the Press Council’s dismissal of a complaint lodged by lawyer Randa Abdel-Fattah regarding The Age’s coverage of the Israel-Gaza conflict. Abdel-Fattah argues that the article “launders Israeli propaganda points” and perpetuates harmful narratives. The Press Council’s decision to dismiss the complaint further highlights concerns about media accountability in reporting on complex geopolitical issues.

Crikey’s article raises important questions about the role of Australian politicians and business figures in promoting divisive ideologies and potentially influencing Australian public discourse.

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