A MAN is behind bars on a terrorism charge after allegedly arming himself with knives and tactical gear with the "intent to kill" a Newcastle Labor MP.
Jordan Patten, 19, was wearing a T-shirt and shorts when he faced Newcastle Local Court via video link from custody on Thursday, a day after his dramatic arrest in the city's CBD.
Acting magistrate Anthony Spence said Patten was accused of attending Labor party member Tim Crakanthorp's office in Newcastle on June 26 with the "intent to kill" him due to his position in the Labor party.
Patten was not required to enter a plea to one charge of other acts done in preparation for, or planning, for a terrorist act.
Mr Spence read the document laying bare the police allegations and told the court there appeared to be "strong overtones" of mental health issues.
Patten's legal aid defence solicitor Martin Vazquez said there would be no bid for bail in court on the Commonwealth charge on Thursday, June 27.
"I can formally advise the court there will be no application," he said.
Mr Spence formally refused bail and adjourned the matter for eight weeks for police to compile a brief of evidence.
Specialist officers from the Joint Counter Terrorism Team (JCTT) were called in to help investigate the alleged incident in Newcastle on Wednesday, June 26.
Patten was arrested after he was allegedly found with knives and tactical equipment at Honeysuckle at about 12.30pm following a concern for welfare report.
The police case is that he had earlier briefly entered Mr Crakanthorp's office. It's understood Patten had also entered Newcastle Museum.
Following inquiries, police officers became aware of the existence of a document, understood to be a 250-page manifesto, that had been circulated to a number of public figures and media outlets.
Mr Crakanthorp made a public statement on Thursday afternoon, praising the actions of police and museum staff.
"Thank you to everyone who has reached out at this troubling time," he said.
"My staff and I are all safe and unharmed.
"This is a very serious incident. I thank NSW Police for their prompt and effective response.
"I also want to thank the Newcastle Museum staff for their bravery and exceptional management of the situation."
He previously said the individual had "walked in and out of my office" and "left before making any contact with my staff".
Patten's older brother spoke briefly to media outside his house on Thursday, the Daily Telegraph reported.
"I just want to express our sincere apology to members of the community who were there and witnessed it," the brother said.
"We just hope he can get the help he needs."
The City of Newcastle said "a significant incident occurred" at Newcastle Museum.
"All staff and community members in the building at the time remained safe and unharmed," the statement said. "We thank our staff for their professionalism and bravery and NSW Police for their quick response."
The council said it was providing support to staff "who need it in the wake of the incident".
- Support is available for those who may be distressed. Phone Lifeline 13 11 14; MensLine 1300 789 978; Kids Helpline 1800 551 800; beyondblue 1300 224 636; 1800-RESPECT 1800 737 732.
