Understanding violent extremism – information, advice and support

Find information on what violent extremism is, the signs, and how to help someone you are worried about.
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Are you worried a relative, friend or someone you know may be heading down a pathway towards violent extremism? Have you noticed changes in their behaviour that don't seem quite right?

Violent extremism is the use of violence, or support for the use of violence, to achieve social, political or legal outcomes or in response to specific political or social grievances.

Signs that a person may be on a path towards violent extremism can include: 

  • Being more detached or withdrawn than usual.
  • Viewing and sharing hateful, violent and extremist content.
  • A change in their appearance.
  • Isolating from friends or family.
  • Showing intense ideological, political or religious interest. 

You may be concerned about someone or even yourself being drawn into something you aren’t comfortable with.

Support and advice is available to help you or the person you are concerned about. Find more information on the signs of violent extremism here. 

There are many reasons why a person may adopt extreme and/or violent views – each situation is unique and reflects that individual’s personal circumstances and experiences.  

Everyone in Australia has the right to express their beliefs openly, provided that expression is lawful. However, when a person's radical or extreme views lead to violence or support for violence, there is support that can be provided to help and to protect them, as well as the community. Find out more about violent extremism, help and support in Western Australia below. 

Contact police on 000 in an emergency. This includes immediate threats to people or property or if a serious crime is in progress.

Contact police on 131 444 or in person at your local police station to report crimes that have happened in the past or when police attendance is required

See more

Recognising the signs

If you are worried about someone you know, learn more about potential signs and how to help them.

About the Intervention and Support Program

Are you worried someone may be heading down the wrong path? Help is available through the Intervention and Support Program. Find more information and how to get in touch.

Support and resources

Find resources and support services if you are concerned a family member, friend, or someone you know might be on a pathway towards violent extremism.

Definitions

What is violent extremism? Show more ˅

Violent extremism is the use of violence, or support for the use of violence, to achieve social, political or legal outcomes or in response to specific political or social grievances. All forms of violent extremism seek change through fear and intimidation rather than through peaceful means.

What is Countering Violent Extremism (CVE)? Show more ˅

CVE aims to reduce the likelihood of violent extremism by providing early intervention and support to individuals to address social, psychological or behavioural issues. It is a shared effort between all Australian governments and communities.

What is radicalisation or radical thinking? Show more ˅

When a person’s beliefs or behaviour become significantly different from how most members of their society or community view issues and participate politically, this is known as radicalisation. As a person radicalises they may begin to seek drastic changes in society or government. This is not necessarily a bad thing and does not mean these people will become violent. If someone decides that using fear, terror or violence is justified to achieve social, political or legal outcomes, or in response to specific political or social grievances – this is violent extremism.

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