Donald Trump As America reckons with its latest chapter of violence, Australian lawmakers and law enforcement have turned their attention to here.
Seasoned politicians are warning threats are at their highest rate in a generation – and more volatility lies ahead.
There are calls to consider better protections for Australian politicians in light of the attempted assassination of Donald Trump in the US.
READ MORE: Trump reveals why he thinks bullet only grazed him during attempted assassination
Protesters held a peaceful picket outside Home Affairs Minister Jim Chalmers’ office.
The demonstration was a welcome change from vandalism and hate of recent months.
“We need ongoing vigilance, not violence,” Chalmers said.
But threats, particularly online and anonymous, are still common.
READ MORE: What do we know about the shooter behind the attack on Donald Trump?
Security agencies are facing increased political tensions with wars in the Middle East and Ukraine and with high-profile events on the horizon.
Next year Australia will vote.
And while recent campaign violence has been limited to eggs, our allies have not been so lucky.
MP Jo Cox was killed in the UK during Brexit and former PM Shinzo Abe was shot at during a campaign speech in Japan.
READ MORE: Secret Service faces serious questions about security footprint and rooftop access at Trump event
“Clearly there are implications for Australia,” Deputy Liberal Leader Sussan Ley said
The other challenge will be a visit from the King.
Twenty years ago, as a Prince, Charles was charged.
New South Wales Premier John Fahey stepped in, with his contemporary tonight praising John Howard.
READ MORE: Biden appeals for ‘unity’ after attempted Trump assassination, orders security review
“Potentially one of the best things any government did was cracking down on semi automatic weapons,” NSW Premier Chris Minns said.
Australia’s intelligence agencies monitor the threat of homegrown violence, as well as international groups hoping to turn Australians against each other
The nation hopes former acts of vandalism don’t become future acts of violence.
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