Damien Richardson Investigated for Nazi Salute

Damien Richardson, a former star of the Australian TV series Neighbours, is under investigation by Victoria Police after footage emerged of him performing a Nazi salute during a speech at a National Workers Alliance (NWA) event in Melbourne. The incident, which was broadcast live on Facebook, occurred in September, and has drawn scrutiny as members of the National Socialist Network, a neo-Nazi group, were present and reportedly cheered the gesture. Richardson, who characterized his remarks as part of a discussion on free speech and societal changes, claimed he was merely questioning the legality of performing such a salute. Despite the controversy, he and NWA co-founder Matt Trihey denied any affiliation with neo-Nazi groups, asserting their commitment to free speech across the political spectrum. The investigation is ongoing, particularly since new laws prohibiting Nazi salutes in public took effect in Victoria in October 2023. Richardson's comments included references to a perceived 'war on men' and 'anti-white-male-agenda', reflecting his controversial stance on social issues.