By Guardian staff reporter
Publication Date: 2026-01-22 04:38:00
A Queensland PhD student has been accused of plotting to throw a Molotov cocktail at a crowd on Australia Day as part of an alleged terror plot to overthrow the government and replace it with a “cybernetics” alternative, a court has heard.
Sepehr Saryazdi, 24, allegedly planned an attack on Monday’s celebrations to advance a new phase of civilization using artificial intelligence, a court heard on Thursday.
He was accused of targeting an event on the Gold Coast and allegedly posting online that he would lead Australia Day “riots” on the popular tourist strip.
Saryazdi appeared in Brisbane Magistrates Court on Thursday, hours after he was charged with preparing or planning a terrorist attack.
Court documents say he purchased bottles of alcohol, wrapping paper and a blanket between Jan. 4 and Jan. 9 in preparation for the attack.
Crown prosecutor Ellie McDonald refused bail, telling the court Saryazdi had made “extremely concerning” comments…