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

From Metallica to Maritime: The many lives of Greek shipping tycoon Harry Vafias

Though Greek shipping tycoon, Harry Vafias, spends much time working, it certainly isn't a case of 'all work and no play.’

‘I want them to know their word matters’: Peter Georgiou stands against gender violence

Peter Georgiou, a real estate agent from Rushcutters Bay and father of four-year-old twins Leila and Lola, believes change begins at home.

Thessaloniki’s Byzantine walls to shine with new light project

Thessaloniki’s iconic Byzantine Walls are set to be illuminated under a major cultural initiative announced by the Greek Ministry of Culture.

Greek World Heritage Cities face rising climate threats

Iconic Greek cities—Athens, Thessaloniki, Corfu, Rhodes, and Patmos—face serious climate threats, according to a new UNESCO-backed report.

Are apps like Duolingo enough to learn Greek, or do we need a tutor?

For many people who want to learn conversational Greek, an app, can be a very useful addition to your program.

You May Also Like

Hellenic Lyceum of Sydney’s book club honours centenary of Maria Callas’ birth

The Hellenic Lyceum of Sydney’s Book Club honoured the centenary of Maria Callas’ birth on Saturday, December 2 with a High Tea Presentation.

Greek museums go digital in groundbreaking collaboration with Google

While its ancient masterpieces are world-famous, Greece also boasts a dynamic and ever-evolving modern and contemporary art scene.

Donald Trump sworn in as 47th US President

Donald Trump was inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States on Monday, January 20, following a norm-breaking election campaign.