A 20 year old Northern Rivers man has been charged after alleged violent extremist material was found during an investigation into online posts.

A search warrant was carried out at a home in Ocean Shores on Wednesday as part of an investigation by the NSW Joint Counter Terrorism Team, which includes the Australian Federal Police, NSW Police, ASIO and the NSW Crime Commission.

Sam Bolton appeared in the NSW Bail Division Court on Thursday, where Judge R Rabbidge refused bail.

The investigation began after concerning online posts were reported to authorities. The posts allegedly promoted racially motivated and violent extremist views.

During the search, investigators seized a mobile phone. After examining the phone, authorities allege they found material encouraging people to commit acts of terrorism, along with suspected violent extremist material.

Weapons and ammunition were also allegedly found.

Bolton was charged with advocating terrorism, using an online service for violent extremist material, possessing or using a prohibited weapon without a permit, and possessing ammunition without a licence.

The advocating terrorism charge carries a maximum penalty of seven years’ imprisonment, while using an online service for violent extremist material carries a maximum penalty of five years’ imprisonment.

The prohibited weapon charge carries a maximum penalty of 14 years’ imprisonment.

AFP Assistant Commissioner Peter Crozier said authorities take reports of extremist or violent behaviour seriously.

“The AFP takes all reports of extremist or violent behaviour seriously and will investigate information that suggests a person may be encouraging, supporting or planning acts of violence,” Assistant Commissioner Crozier said.

“Public vigilance plays an important role in this effort, and we encourage anyone who becomes aware of concerning behaviour to report it to police.”

NSW Police Force Counter Terrorism and Special Tactics Commander Assistant Commissioner Leanne McCusker said violent extremism had no place in the community.

“Any person who commits, promotes, or threatens to commit an act motivated by extremist ideologies poses a risk to the broader public and hate fuelled behaviours will not be tolerated,” Assistant Commissioner McCusker said.

“These people have the potential to cause significant harm to our communities and threaten social cohesion.”

The charges are allegations and the matter remains before the court.

He is due to reappear in Tweed Heads Local Court on September 18.