Tony Burke Criticises Dutton for Stoking Fear After Terror Plot Revealed to Be a Hoax

AFP later clarified that the explosives-laden caravan found in Sydney, initially treated as terror threat, was incapable of causing a large-scale explosion.

Leader of the Opposition Peter Dutton talks to media at the Coffee Commune during a visit in Brisbane, Australia on Feb. 17, 2025. AAP Image/Jono Searle

Less than 24 hours after the Australian Federal Police (AFP) confirmed that the explosives-laden caravan found in Sydney earlier this year was part of a criminal scheme, not a terrorist plot, a political storm has erupted.

Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke criticised Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, for stoking fear for political gain and of being “conned” by the perpetrators.