Heavy Penalties in Place for Religious Vilification
NSW residents may face fines of up to $100,000 for inciting hatred or ridiculing individuals or groups based on their religious beliefs, according to amendments to the state’s anti-discrimination laws.
The changes specifically prohibit public acts that encourage hatred or serious contempt, or severely ridicule someone or a group because of their religious belief, affiliation, or activity. Vilification, as defined, includes abusive disparaging speech or writing.
Premier Chris Minns reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a peaceful, multicultural society, stating that there is no place for hatred that fosters mistrust and intolerance. The issue of religious vilification has gained prominence amid ongoing demonstrations from Palestinians and Israelis in NSW, particularly in Sydney.
In addition to existing bans on vilification based on race, homosexuality, transgender, and HIV/AIDS status, the new legislation emphasizes the need to protect and reflect the modern, diverse society of Australia, as pointed out by Attorney General Michael Daley.
Complaints related to religious vilification will be referred to Anti-Discrimination NSW and may be resolved through conciliation. The NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal may also handle complaints and, if substantiated, may order an apology or impose damages of up to $100,000.
Collaboration with religious organizations and community advocacy groups was integral in shaping the legislation, ensuring similar protections for faith communities as those for diverse and multicultural communities, according to NSW Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper.
