An alleged extremist accused of plotting an attack against Melbourne’s anarchists engaged in “preparatory” acts rather than an actual terrorism attempt, a court has heard.
Phillip Michael Galea, 32, appeared in the Melbourne magistrates’ court on Wednesday via video link charged with collecting or making documents to prepare for terrorist acts between November 2015 and August 2016.
The anti-Islamist is also charged with acts in preparation for a terrorist act between September 2015 and August last year.
Magistrate Charlie Rozencwajg said Galea was charged with plotting, not with attempting to commit an attack. Galea’s defence team requested access to tapes and other prosecution materials.
Rozencwajg granted the request amid hopes the case could be expedited. He said Galea had allegedly engaged in preparatory acts of plotting attacks against various locations inhabited by Melbourne’s anarchists and the Melbourne Resistance Centre.
Prosecutors are relying on evidence contained in secretly recorded phone conversations during which Galea allegedly talks to other people about his plans.
Galea allegedly said: “They thought what I was planning before was dangerous. They’ve got no idea.”
Police allege Galea also researched homemade bombs, ballistic armour and guns.
The matter was adjourned until 28 April.
