In a decisive response to the horrific Bondi beach attack, the Australian government has announced a significant escalation in its efforts to combat hate speech and extremism. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese unveiled a suite of new legal measures on Thursday, following days of mounting pressure for a stronger stance against antisemitism.
New Legal Powers to Target Preachers of Hate
The federal government plans to significantly strengthen hate speech laws, with a specific focus on religious preachers and leaders who incite violence. The changes, endorsed after a meeting of the National Security Committee, will introduce an aggravated hate speech offence for such figures.
Furthermore, penalties for hate speech that promotes violence will be increased. The reforms will also make hate an aggravating factor in sentencing for crimes involving online threats and harassment. A new regime will be developed to list organisations whose leaders engage in hate speech promoting violence or racial hatred.
Visa Crackdown and a Federal Vilification Offence
As part of the crackdown, the government will create new powers to cancel or reject visas for individuals who are found to spread "hate and division." This move aims to prevent foreign actors from fuelling tensions within Australian communities.
Prime Minister Albanese confirmed the plan includes developing a narrow federal offence for serious vilification based on race or for advocating racial supremacy. This seeks to close gaps in existing state-based legislation.
A Response to a "Worst Act of Mass Murder"
Speaking in Canberra, Albanese directly linked the new measures to the terrorist attack on a Hanukah celebration in Sydney on Sunday. He described it as "one of the worst acts of mass murder that this country has ever seen."
"It was an attack on our Jewish community - but it was also an attack on the Australian way of life," Albanese stated. "Australians are shocked and angry. I am angry. It is clear we need to do more to combat this evil scourge."
The Prime Minister acknowledged a troubling rise in antisemitism since October 2023, which he said culminated in Sunday's violence. His announcement follows criticism that his initial focus on tightening gun control laws was an attempt to distract from failures on antisemitism, a claim made by figures including former Liberal Prime Minister John Howard.
The government has stated it fully adopts the plan to combat antisemitism led by Jillian Segal, signalling a unified and strengthened approach to protecting community safety and social cohesion.
