AFP Assistant Commissioner Stephen Nutt said the arrest followed intelligence provided by the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO). According to authorities, the woman was tasked with tracking individuals affiliated with Guan Yin Citta’s Canberra branch. The group’s Australian leader has been barred from entering China since 2017, and its presence has drawn Beijing’s disapproval.

“This is a time of permanent regional contest,” said Nutt, warning that actors may try to “spy on individuals, groups and institutions in Australia.” ASIO Director-General Mike Burgess emphasized zero tolerance for activities targeting diaspora communities, saying such efforts would be met with strong countermeasures.

Espionage Law Invoked For Only Third Time Since 2018

The woman appeared in the ACT Magistrates Court on Monday, charged with one count of reckless foreign interference, carrying a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. The case is the third of its kind since Australia enacted its foreign interference laws in 2018, laws widely understood to have been aimed at curbing Chinese influence.

The incident may test recent diplomatic thawing between Australia and China, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s recent visit to Beijing. Analysts expect the case to renew scrutiny over foreign-backed influence operations within Australia, especially as regional geopolitical competition intensifies.