After a tragic shooting at Bondi Beach on Sunday that targeted a Jewish holiday, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says his government will take action against hate speech. Two attackers opened fire during a celebration of Hanukkah’s first day, killing fifteen people.
Albanese told reporters in Canberra that new rules would target “those who spread hate, division, and radicalization. A new commission will be established to guarantee that the educational system “prevents, tackles and properly responds to antisemitism,” and the home affairs minister will have additional authority to reject or deny visas for individuals who propagate hate.
The new laws will also include penalties for preachers and leaders who promote violence, a new federal offence of “aggravated hate speech”, and the introduction of “hate” as an aggravating factor in sentencing crimes for online threats and harassment.
“Every Jewish Australian has the right to feel safe, valued and respected for the contribution that they make to our great nation,” Albanese said. The terrorists, inspired by ISIS… sought to turn Australians against each other. Australians have responded to that act of hatred with love and sympathy for those in mourning.
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