Queensland Man Faces Court Over Alleged Attempt to Procure Children for Sexual Exploitation
A 49-year-old Queensland man has appeared before the New South Wales Bail Division Courts today, charged with a series of serious child exploitation offences after allegedly attempting to pay for the procurement of children overseas for adoption and sexual abuse.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) launched an investigation after the man arrived at Sydney Airport on 17 February from China. Australian Border Force (ABF) officers intercepted him and conducted an intelligence-led search of his luggage.
Authorities allege that child abuse material was found on the man’s electronic devices, along with evidence of online conversations with third parties in the Philippines discussing the procurement of children for sexual activity. It is alleged the man offered about 30,000 Philippine pesos (roughly $730 AUD) to a third party to facilitate the adoption and sexual exploitation of minors.
The case was referred to the AFP, and the man has been charged with multiple offences, including possessing, controlling, producing, distributing, or obtaining child pornography material outside Australia, among others.
If convicted, the man faces a maximum penalty of 20 years’ imprisonment for the procurement charge. He has been refused bail and is scheduled to reappear before Downing Centre Local Court on 22 April 2026.
AFP Detective Superintendent Luke Needham condemned the alleged actions, stating, “Children are not commodities to be used for the gratification of sexual predators. If you seek to harm and exploit children, wherever they are in the world, you will be on the AFP’s radar.”
The AFP continues to forensically examine the man’s devices and financial transactions, with efforts underway to identify any potential victims in collaboration with international partners in the Philippines.
ABF Superintendent Elke West reaffirmed the agency’s zero-tolerance approach to child abuse material, emphasizing the role of border officers in protecting the Australian community, especially the young and vulnerable.
The AFP and its partners, through the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation (ACCCE), remain committed to combatting child exploitation and abuse. Members of the public with information on child abuse are encouraged to contact the ACCCE or, in the case of immediate danger, to call police on 000.
Support services are available for those impacted by child sexual abuse and online exploitation. Advice and resources for parents and carers can be found at the AFP-led ThinkUKnow website.
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