New Anti-Hate Legislation in Victoria Prohibits Face Masks and Extremist Flags
Premier Jacinta Allan has announced stringent measures to combat anti-Semitism, violent protests, and individuals concealing their identities behind masks to instigate unrest.
The Victorian government has taken a firm stand against anti-Semitism and violent protests by prohibiting flags and symbols associated with terrorist groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and certain extremist right-wing factions.
New legislation will also disallow the use of face masks and balaclavas during protests, specifically targeting those who use them to hide their identities and evade law enforcement techniques such as capsicum spray and other crowd control methods.
Addressing these reforms, Premier Jacinta Allan stated, “The era of concealing behind masks to propagate hate is over.”
She emphasized, “There should be no sanctuary in this state for individuals inciting racism or violence on our streets.”
The proposed laws will furthermore tackle the deployment of hazardous items like glue, rope, chains, and locks that protesters frequently utilize to cause widespread disruption and jeopardize public safety.
Protecting Places of Worship
Following the recent synagogue firebombing in Melbourne, Allan highlighted the government’s commitment to safeguarding religious institutions, which have become increasingly targeted during protests.
The objective is to ensure that Victorians have the freedom to assemble and pray without the threat of harassment, intimidation, or violence from demonstrators.
Allan affirmed, “This is about upholding the right of individuals from all faiths to live harmoniously and securely in our diverse society.”
She added, “Legislation will be enacted to prevent disruptions at places of worship such as synagogues, temples, churches, mosques, and gurdwaras.”
The premier reiterated the government’s dedication to combating anti-Semitism and all forms of hatred.
She declared, “Anti-Semitism is a malignant force, and we must spare no effort in our battle against it.”
These laws build upon existing measures like the prohibition of Nazi symbols, mandatory Holocaust education, and the implementation of anti-racism strategies.
Allan asserted, “Racism, anti-Semitism, and hate in any guise are unwelcome in Victoria. We remain committed to fostering a robust, unified, and inclusive multicultural society.”
Noting the surge in anti-Semitic and Islamophobic incidents post the Oct. 7 attack and the Israel-Hamas conflict, Allan encouraged Victorians to focus on their own state.
She stated, “This is not about the Middle East; this is about Victoria. It’s about our values and ensuring that every individual in this state can live, work, and pray without intimidation or violence.”
The new laws will complement existing anti-vilification measures in response to appeals from the Jewish Community Council of Victoria for stricter legislation to curb disruptive and intimidating protests.
Coalition Criticizes Delay
Expressing bewilderment over the delayed actions by the Allan government, Federal Opposition Leader Peter Dutton criticized the inaction towards what he deemed as “reasonable appeals” from Jewish communities.
Dutton contended that the rise in anti-Semitic incidents resulted from the actions—or inaction—by Premier Allan and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese over the past 14 months.
He remarked, “When you permit these radicals to stage hate-filled protests on university campuses, aligning with a designated terrorist group without repercussions, it is no surprise that we witness incidents like the recent synagogue firebombing.”
Dutton derided the slow response from the Victorian government, stating, “The premier now acknowledges the need for action. Of course, action is essential—but it should have been taken 14 months ago.”
Supporting Multiculturalism and Social Cohesion
In addition to legislative actions, the government will introduce a social cohesion pledge for multicultural organizations seeking government funding.
This pledge will underscore the promotion of unity, tolerance, and respect within Victoria’s diverse communities.
The government is also prioritizing the revival of multi-faith dialogues in Victoria, which had ceased due to ongoing conflicts overseas.
Allan stated, “These dialogues are crucial for fostering understanding and ensuring the continued flourishing of our multicultural community.”
To enhance the state’s ability to address emerging challenges, the government will establish a targeted advisory group led by George Le Carcass, a former chair of the Victorian Multicultural Commission.
This group will work to ensure that state systems remain responsive to community needs.
The premier also unveiled the formation of a new working group aimed at addressing local issues promptly and effectively in response to emerging concerns.
This group will comprise representatives from governmental bodies, councils, and community organizations to ensure that the concerns of religious and cultural communities are acknowledged and addressed.
