As neo-Nazism continues to be a growing problem in Australia, it’s important to be aware of the dangers it presents. Digital editor Dan Jensen checks out a new documentary taking us inside the world of right-wing extremism.
THERE HAS BEEN a growing number of news reports and articles written about the rise of neo-Nazis within Australia. But while it’s always a heartbreaking affair to learn about the spread of hatred throughout our country, it’s even more harrowing to witness it firsthand.
Revealed: Amongst Us is the first episode in a new documentary series, starting with an investigation into the rise of right-wing extremism conducted by journalist Nick McKenzie. McKenzie hosted a 60 Minutes special last year on the subject in which a man by the pseudonym “Davo” infiltrated the National Socialist Network led by Tom Sewell, posing as a recruit.
Revealed is almost like a companion piece to that report, but focuses on Davo’s undercover journey into the recruitment process of the neo-Nazi cult, wearing a hidden camera to capture every conversation and meeting. It’s often shocking, always engrossing and serves as a wake-up call to just how dangerous the problem is in Australia.
Through the hidden camera footage, we’re introduced to various members of the NSN and explore how the recruitment process works, from initiation through to the higher ranks. One of the most terrifying aspects of this is seeing just how “normal” these hatemongers appear to be. One is a window cleaner, one is a security officer at a casino, several are high school students. In one scene, a 22-year-old male and his girlfriend are shown fawning over Davo’s dog, discussing how cute he is and sounding like the nicest, most regular young couple you could meet.
Read the article by Dan Jensen in Independent Australia.