Introduction

Mafia families are frequently associated with powerful crime syndicates appearing as indistinct blobs of evil, where everyone in the family is "in on it", yet the truth is much more intricate. In Australia, a prime illustration of this complexity is the ‘ndrangheta, a Calabrian mafia organization that has carved out a substantial presence in the country's criminal landscape and that as of 2022 could "celebrate" one century in Australia. This blog explores how some mafia-type families, or dynasties, have evolved over generations in Australia, shaped by both their familial ties and the broader societal context in which they operate.

I have conducted research on the 'ndrangheta in Australia for almost a decade now (it seems yesterday that I first went down under for research and it was 2015...) and a lot has changed in my perception of the phenomenon since I first started. This specific project started because of the need to support law enforcement in their understanding of changes within the families that had been around since the 1960s. On the one hand they expected continuation, on the other hand they observed innovation and change: understanding to what extent these two can coexist was the point of this research.

Understanding ‘Ndrangheta Families

The ‘ndrangheta is considered one of Italy's most powerful mafia organizations. Its influence in Australia can be traced back over a century, primarily together with mass migration from Calabria, where the organization is based. These mafia families are not just criminal enterprises; they are also tightly knit social structures that leverage their familial bonds to maintain power and influence. This unique combination of family dynamics and criminal activity is what makes the study of ‘ndrangheta families in Australia particularly fascinating.

Familiness Diversification: A Key Concept

At the heart of this exploration is the concept of "familiness", which refers to the unique set of resources, relationships, and identities that arise from family involvement in criminal activities. Over generations, these families undergo diversification in both their business activities and their internal structures. This diversification, as identified in the paper, can manifest in several ways, including:

1. Intergenerational Changes: As younger generations take over, they often bring new ideas and strategies that can either enhance or undermine the family business.
2. Transculturation: The blending of Italian traditions with Australian cultural elements can lead to shifts in identity and operational methods for these families.
3. External Factors: Interactions with law enforcement, other criminal groups, and societal attitudes toward crime can significantly impact the strategies and success of these families.

The Four Ideal Types of ‘Ndrangheta Families in Australia

This research has identified four ideal types of ‘ndrangheta families in Australia, each with distinct characteristics and levels of success:

1. Gatekeepers: These families are akin to royal dynasties within the ‘ndrangheta. They have been influential for generations and have successfully diversified their business activities, often distancing themselves from overt criminality. They are well-recognized in the underworld and maintain a delicate balance between legitimacy and their historical ties to crime. Their reputation is built on a legacy of power and violence, but they have adapted to modern societal norms and often contribute positively to their communities.
2. Holdovers: These families have a long history in the Australian criminal landscape but have struggled to adapt to changing circumstances. They often rely on past recognition and reputation but lack the business diversification seen in Gatekeepers. Their involvement in crime may persist, but they frequently face challenges in maintaining their status as younger generations show less inclination to continue the family's legacy.
3. Newcomers: Emerging more recently, these families often gain recognition through connections to established families. They engage in criminal activities, particularly in drug trafficking, and are characterized by their adaptability and willingness to innovate. However, their lack of a longstanding reputation means they often rely on the established networks of the Gatekeepers for legitimacy.
4. Vanishers: These families, once active in criminality, have faded from public consciousness. They lack the recognition and influence of the other groups and often do not engage in criminal activities anymore. Their disappearance serves as a counterpoint to the idea that mafia families are always powerful; it illustrates that criminal dynasties can also decline and vanish over time.

The Impact of Recognition and Reputation

Recognition and reputation play crucial roles in the survival and evolution of these families. For instance, Gatekeepers maintain their status through a combination of historical legacy and active engagement in their communities. They leverage their family name to navigate the underworld while presenting a facade of legitimacy. In contrast, Holdovers may struggle with maintaining their reputation as younger generations show less commitment to the family’s criminal past.

Moreover, Newcomers often derive their power from associations with more established families, which can help them gain recognition quickly. However, this reliance on established networks also means they must navigate the complexities of family dynamics carefully.

The Role of Gender and New Generations

As these families evolve, the roles of women and younger generations are changing significantly. In many of the more successful families, daughters are pursuing education and professional careers outside traditional roles. This shift indicates a broader trend of increasing individual agency within these families, where younger members may choose paths that diverge from the family’s criminal legacy.

For instance, while male successors may still engage in criminal activities, female members are often stepping into roles that emphasize legitimacy and community involvement. This transformation not only reflects changing societal norms but also impacts how these families operate and are perceived by the public and law enforcement.

Conclusion: The Future of ‘Ndrangheta Families in Australia

The evolution of ‘ndrangheta families in Australia showcases a fascinating interplay between familial ties, cultural adaptation, and criminal enterprise. As these families navigate the complexities of modern society, their ability to adapt will determine their continued influence in the underworld.

Understanding this evolution is crucial, as it highlights that not all mafia families are indestructible; some can decline and disappear. The dynamics within these families, influenced by changing societal norms and the pressures of criminality, reveal a more nuanced picture of organized crime that challenges traditional narratives about mafia success and permanence.

In summary, the study of ‘ndrangheta families in Australia is not just about crime; it’s about understanding human relationships, cultural adaptation, and the ongoing struggle for identity and recognition in a rapidly changing world.