Police charge former Neighbours star after allegedly performing an offensive gesture

Content warning: This article discusses a recent incident involving a public figure and the use of a controversial and offensive gesture. Reader discretion is advised.

In a society that prides itself on diversity and inclusivity, it's deeply unsettling when public figures engage in acts that hark back to one of the darkest periods in human history.

The Australian community was recently shaken by the news that a former TV star has found themselves in legal trouble after being charged for a controversial incident at a public event.

As investigations continue, the case has ignited debates surrounding free expression, public conduct, and the limits of personal behaviour in public settings.


Damien Richardson, known for his role as Gary Canning on Neighbours, has found himself at the centre of a legal storm.

The incident occurred while he was speaking at a National Workers Alliance meeting in Melbourne in September.

It was here that he allegedly made the gesture that has since seen him charged by Victoria Police.


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Former Neighbours star Damien Richardson was charged for allegedly making a Nazi salute at a Melbourne event. Credit: Over 60 / Facebook


Police announced in a statement on Wednesday, December 18, that ‘a man has been charged on summons with one count of performing a Nazi gesture in a public place’.

The charge comes after Victoria introduced new laws in October 2023, making it illegal to perform the Nazi salute or display symbols associated with the Nazi party in public.

This legislation is a clear stance against the promotion of hate and a reminder of the importance of learning from the past to prevent the spread of intolerance and bigotry.


The significance of this charge cannot be overstated. It serves as a reminder that actions have consequences and that symbols of hate have no place in our society.

The Nazi salute is not just an offensive gesture; it is a symbol of the persecution and murder of millions of people, including six million Jews, during the Holocaust.

The former Neighbours star is expected to appear before Moorabbin Magistrates' Court on March 19.

This case follows the prosecution of Jacob Hersant, who became the first person in Victoria to be charged with the offence after intentionally performing a Nazi salute in public in Melbourne.


While the recent incident involving a former television star performing a controversial gesture has raised concerns about public behaviour, it's a reminder that similar actions in other contexts—like behind the wheel—can also lead to hefty fines.

In fact, certain rude gestures while driving could cost you up to $395, underscoring the importance of maintaining respect and civility, whether on the streets or in public spaces.
Key Takeaways

  • Damien Richardson, former Neighbours star, was charged for allegedly performing a Nazi salute at a Melbourne event.
  • Performing the Nazi salute or displaying Nazi symbols in public is unlawful in Victoria, with laws introduced in October 2023.
  • This follows the prosecution of Jacob Hersant, the first person in Victoria to be charged under this new offence.
  • Richardson is scheduled to appear before Moorabbin Magistrates' Court on March 19.
We invite our readers to share their thoughts on this matter. How do you feel about the new laws in Victoria regarding the Nazi salute? Do you believe that public figures should be held to a higher standard when it comes to respecting our collective history and promoting inclusivity? Let's have a respectful discussion in the comments below.
 

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Crikey! I throw my hand up like that all the time when I wave to people! Better be more careful in case someone thinks I'm making vile gestures.
Yes - nazi salute my ass! This is someone with an axe to grind and has supplied this frame to the authorities - to me he is acknowledging the audience for their applause.
He has no case to answer and knowing Victoria they will try to find a way to make it stick - he should let it go to court and prove otherwise and have it dismissed.
 
I did think of that but that stiff armed stiff handed gesture at a certain height hard to misunderstand
Are there specifications to determine what is a Nazi salute and what isn't?

From the fictitious Racial Vilification Act 2025 - Section 666:-

"For a hand gesture to be deemed a Nazi salute, the arm must be held upwards between 15 and 45 degrees from the horizontal position with the hand parallel to the offending arm".

Get real!
 
Yes - nazi salute my ass! This is someone with an axe to grind and has supplied this frame to the authorities - to me he is acknowledging the audience for their applause.
He has no case to answer and knowing Victoria they will try to find a way to make it stick - he should let it go to court and prove otherwise and have it dismissed.
The Police will have seen more than this photograph we are shown here.
 
Are there specifications to determine what is a Nazi salute and what isn't?

From the fictitious Racial Vilification Act 2025 - Section 666:-

"For a hand gesture to be deemed a Nazi salute, the arm must be held upwards between 15 and 45 degrees from the horizontal position with the hand parallel to the offending arm".

Get real!
The photo convinces me that he has done exactly as you stated.
 
I just dreamed up the "legislation" to make a point. How does one determine the difference between a Nazi salute and somebody who is merely waving?
I know you did you cheeky bugger - 2025 hasn't arrived yet unless I was asleep! It just goes to show how easy it is for "disinformation and misinformation" to alter peoples perceptions - good one Vegie
 
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I just dreamed up the "legislation" to make a point. How does one determine the difference between a Nazi salute and somebody who is merely waving?
When l wave my arm does just that, IT WAVES from side to side & l don't have my elbow locked as this gent has done in the photo. Thankyou.

Do you salute as he is shown, with a bent elbow or with two fingers held vertically, with or without a locked elbow while raising your arm up & down?
 
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