A former Australian soap opera actor has lost his appeal against a ruling that found him guilty of intentionally performing a gesture resembling a Nazi salute.
Damien Richardson, 57, was convicted in November 2026 of performing the salute at a gathering of the ethno-nationalist National Workers Alliance in September 2024. The event was filmed and broadcast live on social media.
Judge Kate Hawkins dismissed Richardson's appeal on Monday, upholding the original magistrate's decision. The judge provided written reasons for her ruling, rather than reading them in court.
Initially, Richardson was sentenced to a restorative justice process, which included psychological counseling and shadowing a Jewish leader. However, the prosecutor argued for a more severe community corrections order, citing the seriousness of the offense and the harm caused by Nazi gestures.
Richardson's defense barrister contended that his client performed the gesture sarcastically and ironically, and that there was no evidence he was aware of Nazi sympathizers at the event. The defense also argued that Richardson had already faced significant public backlash and professional consequences, effectively being 'canceled' by the entertainment industry.
Despite these arguments, Judge Hawkins ordered a community corrections order assessment for Richardson. He is scheduled to return to court on September 1 for sentencing, where the judge will consider conditions such as supervision, community work, and treatment.