The woman appeared in ACT Magistrates Court accused of covertly spying for China by the federal police’s Counter Foreign Interference Taskforce (CFITF).
She faces one count of reckless foreign interference which carries a maximum penalty of 15 years jail, police said on Monday.
She was arrested and charged on Saturday (August 2) after Australian Federal Police searched multiple homes in Canberra and seized electronic devices and other items.
The AFP alleged that the woman, who is an Australian permanent resident, was ordered by the Public Security Bureau from China to covertly gather information about the Canberra branch of Guan Yin Citta.
AFP Counter Terrorism and Special Investigations Assistant Commissioner Stephen Nutt says that more charges can-not be ruled out as their investigations continue.
Her arrest follows the AFP launch of Operation Autumn-Shield in March after they were alerted by the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO).
“Foreign interference is a serious crime that undermines democracy and social cohesion,” Nutt says.
“Australia is not immune to foreign interference. We should not expect that this arrest will prevent further attempts to target our diaspora communities.
“At a time of permanent regional contest, offenders will attempt to spy on individuals, groups and institutions in Australia,” he says.
“That’s why the AFP and our partners will continue to educate the community about what foreign interference is, how communities can protect themselves, and importantly, encouraging the public to contact authorities if they believe they are being targeted by those working for foreign entities.
“One of the best defences to foreign interference is increased public awareness and reporting to authorities.”
ASIO Director-General Mike Burgess says they had warned about such activities.
“In this year’s annual threat assessment, I called out these types of activities and put perpetrators on notice by stating, ‘we are watching, and we have zero tolerance’,” he says.
“Anyone who thinks it is acceptable to monitor, intimidate and potentially repatriate members of our diaspora communities should never underestimate our capabilities and resolve.”
> Anyone who feels threatened should call their local police on 131 444 or, in a life-threatening situation, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
> Individuals or community groups who feel they are the target of foreign interference can call the national security hotline on 1800 123 400.
