The nation’s neo-Nazis are trying to get into a more “political space”, the Australian Federal Police has warned, amid claims the May election was the most violent on record as intimidation and threats at polling booths were recorded across the country.

The parliamentary inquiry into the May 3 election was told on Friday that threats against candidates had climbed by almost a fifth, though the election was overwhelmingly peaceful and enjoyed high levels of turnout, even compared to other Western democracies.

The inquiry is considering issues including a possible increase in the number of MPs and senators, as well as the growing threat posed by artificial intelligence to electoral campaigns. Its recommendations will guide rules for the next election, due by May 2028.

Acting AFP deputy co

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