Grant-funded podcast hosted deported US conspiracy figure, prompting antisemitism probe
A Sydney-based podcast that received a $308,000 Commonwealth grant interviewed American livestreamer Sneako, who was later deported from Australia, leading the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion to request an investigation.
During a hearing, the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion was told that OnePath Network, a Sydney-based Islamic-oriented podcast funded with $308,000 under the Commonwealth’s multicultural media program, hosted an interview with American livestreamer Nicolas Kenn De Balinthazy, aka Sneako. Sneako, whose content has been labeled by the Anti-Defamation League as a major conduit for antisemitism, white supremacy and misogyny, was deported from Australia in May after his visa was revoked.
The interview, titled “Who really is Sneako? The Manosphere, Islam and Israel,” aired in June and covered his rise, conversion to Islam and ties to Kanye West. Jewish representatives, led by Nicholas Bender SC, asked Department of Home Affairs secretary Stephanie Foster whether funding such a platform was appropriate, given Sneako’s lifetime ban.
Foster responded that the department would investigate any credible concerns about grant misuse but declined to comment further pending the inquiry. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke previously warned that Sneako would never be allowed back, citing the government’s commitment to block individuals who spread hate.
Why it matters
It raises questions about how public funds are used to support media that may amplify extremist voices.
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