Payman said the event’s invitation “highlighted themes of freedom, inclusivity, and the empowerment of Iranian women”.

Payman accused of foreign interference

“Her statements appear to align more with the rhetoric of the Iranian regime rather than the lived experiences of those who continue to fight for their basic freedoms. Such remarks not only distort the truth but also risk spreading misinformation and division within our multicultural society.”

The department says foreign interference includes activity taken by or together with foreign governments that: involves a threat to an individual, or is hidden, dishonest, threatening or corrupting and intended to influence an individual’s political rights or undermine Australia’s national interests.

Iranian community ‘shocked’ by Payman’s comments

“She was one of the supporters of the Woman, Life, Freedom [movement] two years ago. She has attended a few of our rallies, and now she has dramatically changed her position, and that is what puzzles us.”

With additional reporting by Naveen Razik.