Former Soap actor Damien Richardson fights 'N*zi' salute charge with arm angle mathematics as court case intensifies

Australian actor Damien Richardson, during an appearance at Moorabbin Magistrates' Court on July 15, mentioned that he will be challenging what constitutes a N*zi salute. Richardson was charged with performing the N*zi salute at an event in Melbourne in September 2024, where far-right activists were present.

As per a law introduced by the New South Wales Parliament in 2022, displaying a N*zi symbol carries a maximum penalty of 12 months' jail time and an additional fine of $11,000, or both. As per video footage, the former soap actor can be seen giving a speech at a meeting for the National Workers Alliance, which stands for the "preservation of Western culture and identity," when he allegedly made the salute.

In court, Richardson's lawyer, Peter Monagle, questioned the "scientific" and "mathematical" value of the gesture, including the gesture-maker's arm angle and finger arrangement, to defend the actor:

"It's a single issue as to the interpretation of the law. There seems to be some part of mathematical formula about the arm and whether the fingers are together."

The case is scheduled for a two-day hearing in November, and prosecution will call on an expert to determine what constitutes a N*zi salute.

Damien Richardson is an Australian actor and is known for his recurring role on the show Neighbours from 2014 to 2020. He also made appearances in Blue Heelers, McLeod's Daughters and Wentworth.

More about Damien Richardson's alleged N*zi salute in September, 2024

Damien Richardson, during an appearance at a Melbourne meeting of the National Workers Alliance, allegedly performed a N*zi salute. As per a police statement to ABC News in December 2024, Damien was charged:

"A man has been charged on summons with one count of performing a N*zi gesture in a public place. The 54-year old Glenroy man is expected to appear before Moorabbin Magistrates' Court on 19 March 2025."

National Workers Alliance meeting organizer Matt Trihey, as per ABC, noted that there has been a lot of "misinformation":

"Neither Damien or I have ever been members of N*zi organizations and we have no connection with the NSN (National Socialist Network). I am a free speech advocate and have no control over who purchases online tickets to my events."

While defending Damien Richardson's acts, his lawyer Mr. Monagle said that the gesture was "made without thought of what the ramifications could be." At the November 2025 court hearing, a recording of the event at which Richardson allegedly made the gesture will be played.

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