A new international counter-extremism hub is to be established in the UK, designed to strengthen efforts to stop violent extremism before it threatens British communities.

The agreement comes after the Five Country Ministerial in Sydney, where the Five Eyes countries agreed to establish a permanent joint Countering Violent Extremism Hub in the UK capital.

The hub will bring together counter-terrorism and counter-extremism specialists from across the UK, US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, creating a dedicated centre for intelligence sharing, collaboration and early intervention.

Ministers have also agreed a new diversion programme so authorities can intervene faster when people show signs of radicalisation or develop a fixation with violence. This will complement the UK’s Prevent programme by helping professionals identify vulnerable people online, connect them with the support they need, and refer them to Prevent where necessary.

As part of this work, Five Eyes partners will work closely with technology companies, industry partners and governments to act faster against harmful content and strengthen protections for users.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said: "As we have seen with so many tragic incidents across the world, the threat posed by violent extremists is real and continues to evolve, often fuelled by new technologies.

"Bringing together intelligence and expertise from our closest international partners will strengthen our ability to disrupt dangerous networks and prevent violence before lives are put at risk.

"The radicalisation of children and young people online is a particular concern across the globe. Our new diversion programme will ensure we act faster to keep everyone safe.

"For years, the Five Eyes have worked together to make the citizens of each of our countries safer. This is the next step forward in that shared endeavour."