The Australian government's proposed hate speech and gun reform legislation faces almost certain defeat in parliament, with Opposition Leader Sussan Ley declaring the bill "pretty unsalvageable" and drawing fierce personal criticism from senior ministers.
Government Launches Scathing Attack on Ley
Foreign Minister Penny Wong launched a direct assault on Ms Ley's political future on Friday, suggesting the opposition leader's own position was now untenable. "She continues to say the legislation is unsalvageable," Wong stated in Adelaide. "I think what is becoming increasingly clear is that it is Ms Ley's leadership which is unsalvageable."
Treasurer Jim Chalmers echoed the sentiment, accusing the Coalition of prioritising internal politics over public safety in the wake of the Bondi terror attack. He suggested Ley was trying to placate extreme elements within her party and was "at risk of being rolled" regardless of the bill's outcome.
Broad Opposition from Coalition and Religious Leaders
The government faces a formidable challenge to pass the bill, which was introduced with a self-imposed seven-day deadline for passage. The Coalition has flatly rejected the legislation in its current form, arguing it was rushed and could have serious unintended consequences for free speech.
Shadow Home Affairs Minister Jonathon Duniam criticised the government for "demanding that we pass them with little to no scrutiny." The Coalition has put forward its own alternative plan to legislate based on the report of the special envoy for antisemitism.
In a significant blow, a coalition of over 25 religious leaders from Christian, Islamic, Sikh, and Buddhist communities published a joint letter to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Friday. The signatories, including Sydney's Catholic Archbishop Anthony Fisher, urged a delay and redraft, arguing the bill failed to protect lawful religious expression, sermons, and pastoral guidance. Notably, no Jewish community leaders signed this particular letter.
Greens Hold Key and Crossbench Pleas for Cooperation
The Greens have also refused to support the bill as it stands, leaving the government without a clear path through the Senate. The minor party is consulting stakeholders over the weekend on possible amendments.
A group of independent MPs, including Allegra Spender whose Wentworth electorate encompasses Bondi Beach, issued a plea for cooperation. "The victims, families and Jewish community leaders have been united in their calls for a strong response," their joint statement read. They called on the Coalition to allow a conscience vote if internal divisions persist.
Peter Wertheim of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry encouraged the Coalition to negotiate, warning against letting "the perfect be the enemy of the good."
Parliament has been recalled early for two days to debate the legislation and to pass a condolence motion for the victims of the 14 December Bondi terror attack, which claimed 15 lives.
