Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has expressed surprise at the Coalition’s criticism over the rapid introduction of hate speech reforms. He has called for “national unity” and encouraged a collaborative approach to the discussions.

There appears to be some disagreement about the level of consultation involved in drafting these reforms. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley contends that her party was not adequately involved in the process. In contrast, Albanese asserts that he has engaged in multiple discussions with key figures, including Ley, Greens leader Larissa Waters, and Wentworth MP Allegra Spender, whose constituency was directly affected by the incident.

Ley has also voiced concerns that the proposed measures fall short in addressing the growing issue of antisemitism. This highlights the ongoing debate regarding the effectiveness of the reforms in tackling hate speech while preserving essential rights.

The prime minister’s remarks came hours after Opposition leader Sussan Ley labelled the laws “half-baked”, stating the government had “clumsily” tried to address antisemitism and the rise of extremism, but ultimately, “the laws achieve neither of these things”.

“It doesn’t address Islamic extremism. It doesn’t address [self-proclaimed Islamic State] influence. And it doesn’t address the rise of antisemitism and the terrorist threat in Australia.”

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She also criticised a proposed carve-out for preachers if directly quoting religious texts for the purposes of discussion or education.