A prominent white nationalist, Joel Davis, has been released from custody after winning an appeal at the NSW Supreme Court, marking his fourth attempt at bail. Davis, 31, had been held on remand since November over allegations he called for the 'rhetorical rape' of independent MP Allegra Spender.
Davis, a key Sydney ally of the now-disbanded National Socialist Network, claims his comments were a 'philosophical term of art', but prosecutors allege they encouraged hate and abuse. He also allegedly commented 'stupid bitch needs to be beaten' on an article about NSW Liberal leader Kellie Sloane and 'must rape' on an article about eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant.
Justice Natalie Adams noted Davis had been kept in segregation due to his political affiliations and had not been outside since 24 December, showering only once every four days. His barrister argued delays meant he could spend months or another year in such conditions if not granted bail.
Prosecutor Laura Goodwin conceded hardship but argued Davis posed a risk of committing serious offences or endangering others. However, Justice Adams imposed strict bail conditions, including a ban on social media posts, internet-capable phones, and encrypted devices, and a 100-metre exclusion zone around Spender and Sloane.
A psychologist's report indicated Davis still holds controversial views but is on the 'precipice of change'. The network's deregistration in January removed his platform for sharing those views. In Melbourne, network leader Thomas Sewell faced court over offensive behaviour charges unrelated to this case.
