Soap Star Convicted: Former Neighbours Actor Damien Richardson Found Guilty Over Nazi Salute Controversy

Former Neighbours actor Damien Richardson has been found guilty of making a gesture resembling a Nazi salute after a high-profile, two-day contested court hearing in Melbourne.

Richardson, 56, was charged after the incident occurred during a speech at a restaurant in Melbourne’s south-east in September 2024. Video footage of the gesture was central to the case presented at the Moorabbin Magistrates Court.

Richardson’s legal team, led by Peter Monagle, mounted a dual defense, arguing that the gesture was protected because it was performed for legitimate \”artistic or theatrical purposes.\” The defense also contended that since the restaurant was closed for a function, it should not be legally considered a public place.

Magistrate Justin Foster, however, rejected the actor\’s defense on both counts: finding no artistic justification for the gesture and confirming that the licensed premises retained its status as a public space regardless of the private function.

The verdict of \”guilty\” for performing a gesture that \”resembles a Nazi salute\” puts the former soap star at the center of a national controversy surrounding hate symbols and public expression.

The conviction signals a significant outcome in the case, particularly given the recent spotlight on the enforcement of laws against the display of such symbols in Australia.

The sentencing phase is now expected to determine the final penalty for the prominent actor, known for his work on the long-running television show.