Australian author Yang Hengjun to face espionage trial in China next Thursday

Yang Hengjun will face Chinese court next Thursday after spending almost two years behind bars.

Dr Yang Hengjun.

Australian author Yang Hengjun will face court in China next Thursday over an espionage charge, after spending almost two years behind bars.

Dr Yang, who in the past spied for China, emigrated to Australia to complete a PhD at the University of Technology Sydney. He became a naturalised Australian citizen and advocated greater democracy in China. Almost two years ago he was seized on charges of espionage on a visit to Guangzhou in south China.

Dr Yang faces three years to life in jail if convicted, a high probability in a country with a conviction rate higher than 99 per cent.

“Despite repeated requests by Australian officials, Chinese authorities have not provided any explanation or evidence for the charges facing Dr Yang,” a statement from Foreign Minister Marise Payne said.

“Since his detention, Dr Yang has had no access to his family, and limited, delayed access to his legal representation.”

Senator Payne said Australian authorities have conveyed to Chinese authorities “concerns” about Dr Yang’s treatment and “the lack of procedural fairness” in how the case has been managed.

She is calling on the Chinese government to permit Australian officials entry to the hearing on May 27, under obligations from the Australia-China bilateral consular agreement.

Dr Yang has denied the allegations and sent messages of hope to his family in Australia.

“I still have some confidence in the court. I think they will give me justice,” he said in a message in December.