New law banning religious vilification passes NSW Parliament

·

Legislation to prohibit religious vilification passed NSW Parliament on Thursday.

The amendment to the NSW Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 makes it unlawful to, “by a public act, incite hatred towards, serious contempt for, or severe ridicule of, a person or group of persons, because of their religious belief, affiliation or activity.”

A “public act” includes any form of communication to the public, verbal and non-verbal.

The legislation mirrors existing provisions in the Anti-Discrimination Act that make vilification unlawful on the grounds of race, homosexuality, transgender status and HIV/AIDS status.

People who do not have a religious belief or affiliation or do not engage in religious activity are also protected under the new law, which recognises that these are also positions in relation to religion which should be respected.

NSW Attorney General Michael Daley says religious vilification is “completely unacceptable.” Photo: Dan Himbrechts/AAP PHOTOS.

A wide range of stakeholders were consulted on the amendment, including faith-based organisations, community groups, multicultural associations, legal advocates and NSW Government agencies.

The new law comes into effect three months after the date of assent to the Act.

NSW Attorney General Michael Daley said “vilification on the grounds of a person’s religion (or no belief) is completely unacceptable in our community.”

“Now we have a clear law to protect people from public actions that incite hatred or serious contempt or severe ridicule of them on the basis of their religious belief or lack of belief,” Mr Daley said.

NSW Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper said “it is regrettable to see any expression of vilification towards certain groups based on their beliefs.”

“This legislation sends a strong message to those people who seek to stir hatred and division in our community. It won’t be tolerated,” Mr Kamper said.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Step into the world of mental health with Georgia Cassimatis’ latest book

Greek Australian author and journalist, Georgia Cassimatis, has released a book all about exploring the world of mental health.

GOCNSW Welfare Service to put a spotlight on cyber security awareness

The Greek Orthodox Community of NSW’s (GOCNSW) Welfare Service has organised three Cyber Security Awareness education and training workshops.

Marriage of a Greek woman abroad: What to watch out for

It is during this registration process that numerous problems arise, which are not dealt with immediately but later on.

Athena Competition Greek winners show olive oil diversity

By Lisa Radinovsky from Greek Liquid Gold. At the 10th anniversary edition of the ATHENA International Olive Oil Competition in Chania, Crete, Greece in May, 175 Greek olive oils...

Greece’s island communities face population crisis

The demographic decline in Greece is hitting its islands hard, with Lemnos and Agios Efstratios showing alarming signs of aging populations.

You May Also Like

From Greece to Australia: Anthanassia Iosifidou Lima teaches English to foreign military

Edith Cowan University graduate Athanassia Iosifidou Lima is in the Alumni Spotlight as an English educator to foreign military in Melbourne.

WA community pays tribute to heroes of Crete and victims of Greek Genocide

On Sunday, May 18, the Holy Diocese of Perth held its annual commemoration for the Battle of Crete during WWII and the Greek Genocide.

Johnny Otis: Renowned Greek American musician

Johnny Otis, born Ioannis Alexandres Veliotes, was a Greek American musician known for his contribution to American R&B and rock and roll.