Australia's Richest Person Calls for Mandatory Social Media Screening of Immigrants at Anzac Memorial

Mining magnate Gina Rinehart has called for comprehensive social media monitoring of immigrants and claimed Australian children are being taught to reject their national flag, in remarks delivered at a major Anzac Day commemoration on Friday.

Rinehart, Australia's wealthiest individual, addressed approximately 4,000 attendees gathered on the steps of Sydney Opera House for the untelevised portion of the service. The event was co-sponsored by her company, Hancock Prospecting, and RSL New South Wales.

Scrutiny of Immigrant Vetting

In her speech, which was subsequently shared online, Rinehart advocated for stricter immigration controls. "Our immigration procedures must only allow immigrants who have been thoroughly checked – including their phones, iPads, laptops and social media," she stated.

The magnate framed the proposal as a national security measure, asserting that Australia should "protect our country – and welcome only peace-loving, contributing immigrants to our shores."

Response to Recent Violence

Rinehart referenced the fatal attack at a Hanukkah gathering in Bondi, describing it as a "despicable, hate-filled act – the murder of our Jewish friends, peacefully gathered in Bondi at the commencement of Hanukkah." She suggested the government's response had fallen short of what was needed.

"Is it adequate when we know that many in our Jewish community are still living in fear of their lives?" Rinehart asked. She also raised concerns about a large rally featuring "flags and death chants" that had taken place on Macquarie Street recently, questioning the enforcement of hate speech legislation.

Broader Criticisms of Government

Beyond immigration and hate speech, Rinehart levelled multiple accusations against the Australian government, claiming it was squandering public funds, eroding civil liberties, maintaining an inefficient military, and failing to address the homelessness crisis among veterans. She also asserted that educational institutions were fostering negative attitudes toward the Australian flag among students.

Veteran Housing Initiative

On Thursday, Hancock Prospecting announced a $200 million commitment to acquire and convert properties into housing for homeless Australian veterans, which the company characterized as "the biggest ever private commitment for Australian veterans."

During the televised segment of the service, Rinehart expressed support for veteran welfare efforts, stating: "Our companies support, and I hope many more Australians will support, our veterans."

The billionaire has a track record of contributing to military and veteran organizations, including donations to RSL, Soldier On, the Commando Welfare Trust, Legacy, and the legal defence fund for former special forces personnel.

High-Profile Attendance

The service attracted numerous political figures, among them Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles, Opposition Leader Angus Taylor—who has similarly advocated for monitoring migrants' online activity—former prime ministers Scott Morrison and John Howard, New South Wales Governor Margaret Beazley, and New Zealand Defence Minister Chris Penk.

Several attendees expressed gratitude to Rinehart at the service's conclusion, with some requesting photographs. Taylor briefly engaged with her following the official proceedings. Marles' office declined to comment on Rinehart's remarks when contacted.

Previous Calls for Defence Spending

At the same service last year, Rinehart delivered remarks advocating for Australia to increase its defence expenditure to 5% of gross domestic product and invest in drone technology modelled on Israeli systems.