Australian Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke ordered the cancellation of U.S. streamer Nico 'Sneako' De Balinthazy's visa on May 5, 2026, citing the government's stance against individuals promoting hatred, according to multiple Australian media reports. The decision, attributed to the Department of Home Affairs, reportedly bars Sneako from re-entering Australia and applying for future visas, with Burke stating, 'Our government has made it very clear we will use every power available to us to protect our community from people coming to this country to spread hatred.'

Sky News Australia and other outlets reported the move followed an assessment of Sneako's online content, which authorities allegedly deemed offensive and inflammatory. Clips from Australian broadcasts circulated online, with some commentators questioning how he had been granted entry initially, referencing his history of controversial statements and prior platform bans.

Sneako denied the deportation claims in posts on X, asserting he was not removed from the country. He shared video footage from an airport and later from an airplane, stating his South East Asia tour had concluded and his stop in Australia was for personal meetings before returning home. 'I did not get deported from Australia,' he wrote. 'No I’m just going home,' he added in response to a report claiming he was expelled.

As of now, Australian officials have not released official documentation or a detailed public statement confirming the lifetime ban. The Department of Home Affairs has not responded to requests for comment on the specific case.

The matter remains under informal public scrutiny, with no formal announcement on whether Sneako is permanently barred. The government is expected to address immigration enforcement protocols during its next scheduled briefing on border security, set for May 12, 2026.