Premier Chris Minns of New South Wales has taken a firm stand against expressions and symbols that promote hate, violence, or intimidation. “There is no place in New South Wales for slogans or symbols that incite hatred, glorify violence, or intimidate communities,” Minns declared, emphasizing the state’s commitment to maintaining a safe and inclusive environment.
In a decisive move, the state has introduced new legislation to ensure that such conduct is not tolerated. “These laws send a clear message that hateful conduct will not be tolerated,” he stated, highlighting the government’s proactive stance against divisive rhetoric.
Among the expressions targeted by this new legislation is the chant “globalise the intifada,” which Minns said “encourages violence in our community.” He underscored the need for such measures by noting, “Things have changed since Sunday. We don’t live in that world anymore. This is the truth; everything needs to be examined.”
Amidst recent events, Premier Minns has also called for a Royal Commission to delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding Sunday’s mass shooting. He expressed the necessity for a comprehensive investigation, saying, “Right now, we’ve got bits and pieces of the jigsaw puzzle here, but we don’t have the full picture,” highlighting the importance of fully understanding the tragic incident.
The Premier also called for a Royal Commission, saying we don’t yet have the full picture of Sunday’s mass shooting.
“Right now, we’ve got bits and pieces of the jigsaw puzzle here, but we don’t have the full picture,” he said.
“Until we’ve got a full and accurate picture of exactly how this happened, with a plan to ensure that it doesn’t happen again, then I don’t have answers to the people of New South Wales about what happened on Sunday.”
Attorney General Michael Daley will consult the Legislative Assembly Committee on Law and Safety to potentially include any additional statements in the state’s new hate speech laws.
“We must tackle this scourge in all its forms, including inflammatory and divisive symbols and slogans which cause real fear to vulnerable communities,” he said.
“This Government is determined to do whatever is necessary to ensure community safety and cohesion after the horrific events at Bondi.”
The laws will be introduced when parliament returns in the new year.
Additionally, new legislation is set to be rolled out on Monday, making it an offence under NSW law to publicly display terrorist symbols such as ISIS or Hamas flags without a plausible reason.
Reasonable excuses include an academic purpose or another purpose within the public interest.
The maximum penalty for the offence carries a two-year prison sentence or a $22,000 fine, and up to $110,000 for organisations.
Police will also be given greater powers to remove the face coverings of people at public assemblies.
“Police need to be in a position where if they suspect a crime is being committed, they can launch effective action,” Minns said.
“We’ve seen in the past that hateful, racist speech has been set in our community.
“It’s a difficult job for the police, and we need to make sure they’ve got the tools to take that action.”
