Newcastle police are investigating a report of a man allegedly displaying an antisemitic tattoo while at Bar Beach on Christmas Eve. The report was made after a local resident, Ben Parsons, observed a tattoo that appeared to be the symbol of the Nazi regime’s SS Schutzstaffel, the elite guard responsible for some of the worst atrocities of World War II.
Investigation Launched
Parsons, who was at the beach with his family, reported the incident to Crime Stoppers after finding the tattoo “intimidating.” He expressed concern for multicultural communities in Newcastle, stating, “Newcastle is very multicultural and to think [people of other cultures] go to the beach and have to put up with that … it’s just disgusting.”
NSW Police confirmed that the Newcastle City Police District, along with Operation Shelter – the unit overseeing the Bondi response – are investigating the matter. According to a police statement, the investigation began on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, following a report of a man displaying a designated hate symbol.
Legal Context
The display of Nazi symbols in public has been prohibited in New South Wales since 2022. However, new offenses related to Nazi conduct and symbols were introduced in early November 2025 following an antisemitic rally outside parliament.
Retired Supreme Court Justice Anthony Whealy, chair of the Centre for Public Integrity, believes the existing laws should apply to visible tattoos. He stated, “If [a tattoo is] observable, then I think that would fall within the definition of displaying ‘by public act’, a Nazi symbol.” He further explained that Section 93Z of the Crimes Act defines a “public act” broadly enough to include the display of tattoos.
Police Minister Yasmin Catley affirmed that there is “no tolerance for antisemitic slogans or symbols that glorify hatred” in the state, and that police are “working around the clock to stamp out hateful conduct.”
What Happens Next?
If the investigation confirms the tattoo depicted a prohibited symbol, the individual could face legal consequences under NSW law. It is possible police will seek to identify the man through the photos provided by Mr. Parsons. Depending on the evidence gathered, charges could be laid. The investigation’s outcome could also influence future interpretations of the law regarding the public display of hate symbols.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Ben Parsons find concerning?
Ben Parsons found the man’s tattoo, which appeared to be an SS Schutzstaffel symbol, “intimidating” and expressed concern about its impact on multicultural communities in Newcastle.
When were new Nazi conduct and symbol offences introduced in NSW?
New Nazi conduct and symbol offences were introduced in early November 2025 following an antisemitic rally outside parliament.
What is the definition of a “public act” under NSW law?
Section 93Z of the Crimes Act defines a “public act” as any form of communication or conduct, including the wearing or display of signs, flags, emblems and insignia observable by the public.
What role do you believe community reporting plays in addressing hate speech and symbols?
