Sydney, September 15, 2025 – A fiery debate has ignited on social media after a post by X user Baron of Burleigh accused the Australian Institute of being an “un-Australian far left activist haters club.” The claim stems from a now-deleted essay by the Institute’s chief political analyst, Amy Remeikis, published in The New Daily. The article reportedly suggested that slain conservative commentator Charlie Kirk “wanted the America he was killed in,” a statement that has sparked outrage among right-leaning Australians.
Charlie Kirk’s Assassination Fuels Tension
The timing couldn’t be more charged, with Charlie Kirk’s shocking assassination at Utah Valley University earlier this week still fresh in global headlines. The 31-year-old American conservative, known for his provocative views, was gunned down during a speaking event, an act local authorities are treating as a politically motivated attack. Tributes have poured in from across the world, while the incident has reignited discussions about political violence, with Australia’s own far-right groups under renewed scrutiny.
Australian Institute Under Fire
The Australian Institute, a Canberra-based think tank established in 1994, has long been labelled as “progressive” or “left-leaning” due to its research on inequality, climate policy, and democratic accountability. Critics, like Baron of Burleigh, argue it promotes divisive agendas, pointing to Remeikis’ essay as evidence. However, the Institute maintains it takes a bipartisan approach, with its work often cited in policy debates on taxation and environmental issues.
Rising Political Extremism in Australia
The controversy comes as the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) released its 2025 report, highlighting a 15% increase in ideologically driven attacks in Western nations, including a growing far-right presence locally. Groups like Reclaim Australia have been monitored, though no direct link to the Australian Institute has been established. Experts warn that such incidents could deepen the nation’s political divide.
Calls for Accountability
The removal of Remeikis’ essay by The New Daily has raised questions about editorial censorship, with some speculating it was pulled due to public backlash. Meanwhile, the post on X has garnered thousands of reactions, amplifying calls for the Australian Institute to clarify its stance. As the nation grapples with these tensions, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragile balance between free speech and political extremism in today’s Australia.
