A 16-year-old Brisbane child accused of stabbing a fellow student was allegedly subjected to months of “racist” abuse and threats, a court has heard. The teen, who cannot be named for legal reasons, appeared in Richlands children’s court on Wednesday after allegedly stabbing a 17-year-old schoolmate multiple times on Tuesday. The police prosecutor, Sgt Shane Stephenson, called the incident “extremely serious and concerning” and alleged it was “premeditated,” noting the victim suffered wounds to his lower back and torso, with damage to his liver causing internal bleeding requiring urgent surgery.

The court heard the attack may have been motivated by a social media post, which Stephenson described as “completely disproportionate to any perceived insult.” But defence lawyer Torik Dib argued the child had been bullied for months online and in person, reading out messages that included ethnic abuse and threats. Magistrate Mark Howden called the messages “threatening and racist” and granted the teen bail with conditions. The case was adjourned until 3 September.