Family speaks about 'troubled' teen charged with terror offence in Newcastle

The family of a "very troubled" 19-year-old charged with a terrorism offence said he had expressed remorse for allegedly walking into a politician's office dressed in tactical gear and armed with knives.

Jordan Patten from Raymond Terrace was arrested yesterday after he allegedly entered Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp's office shortly after midday.

Police allege he was livestreaming on a GoPro when he left the office and walked into Newcastle Museum, where he was intercepted by officers.

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Police were made aware of a manifesto he allegedly wrote and sent out to the media and some public figures and charged him today.

His brother William Patten said he grew concerned about Jordan's welfare after a comment he made when leaving the family home.

He then tried to get to Newcastle to get ahold of him before he did anything.

"I am deeply saddened by his [alleged] actions and choices, I do not understand his reasons," he told reporters today.

"I am deeply concerned with his welfare."

William said he had no idea Jordan was capable of what is alleged to have occurred, adding that his brother was becoming aware of the gravity of the situation from behind bars.

"He expressed his sorrow for his [alleged] actions," he said.

"I still love him as a brother but I cannot forgive the [alleged] actions."

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William and his aunt, Emma Patten, described Jordan as a quiet and smart introvert who was neither working nor studying and had a number of mental health issues.

"Treatment was hit and miss," William said.

"He is a very troubled boy, he needs support," Emma said.

Patten was charged by the Joint Counter Terrorism Team and denied bail.

"A number of items were seized when the man was searched and these have been taken for further analysis," NSW Police said in a statement this morning.

"The man was taken to Newcastle Police Station and has now been charged with one count of other acts done in preparation for, or planning, for terrorist act, contrary to Section 101.6 of the Criminal Code Act (CTH)."

He faced Newcastle Local Court today.

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Police say there is no ongoing threat to the public.

Crakanthorp, in a statement today, said no one at his office had been harmed.

"This is a very serious incident. I thank NSW Police for their prompt and effective response," he said.

"I also want to thank the Newcastle Museum staff for their bravery and exceptional management of the situation."