A 20-year-old Western Australian man charged with terrorism offenses allegedly planned a “day of justice” and referenced the Bondi attack in his diary, according to testimony at a Perth bail hearing.
Jayson Joseph Michaels appeared via video link from Casuarina Prison’s special handling unit. Magistrate Belinda Coleman denied bail, describing the case as far from weak.
Prosecution’s Case
Prosecutor Kirsten Nelson stated that Michaels, driven by right-wing ideology, researched locks at a Perth mosque. Authorities seized firearms, a large knife collection, and other items during a February search of his Bindoon home by the state’s Joint Counter Terrorism Team.
Nelson highlighted diary entries expressing clear intent for a terrorist act. Michaels allegedly reflected on the December Bondi Beach attack on Sydney’s Jewish community, writing: “What I want to do to both of these groups pales in comparison to today.”
Further plans included building a gun via 3D printer and designing a jacket patch for the alleged attacks targeting Parliament House, mosques, and police headquarters in Perth. Police believe online radicalization played a key role.
Defense Arguments
Defense lawyer Christian Porter described the prosecution’s evidence as weak and the diary as a “pie-in-the-sky plan”—mere escapism from an isolated young man possibly needing autism spectrum disorder assessment. Porter argued the entries reflected boastful talk to impress others.
Magistrate’s Ruling
Magistrate Coleman called the diary entries disturbing, not mere ramblings. She noted its secure storage at home, Michaels’ mosque research, Army Reserve interest, and efforts to obtain explosive ingredients through employment.
Despite reported prison safety threats, Coleman ordered Michaels remanded in the special handling unit.
Michaels faces charges including preparing a terrorist act, using a carriage service to menace or harass, possessing a prohibited weapon, improper firearm storage, and unauthorized ammunition possession. His next appearance is May 13 at Stirling Gardens Magistrates Court.
