The Allan Labor Government’s recent changes to anti vilification laws pose serious risks to social cohesion and freedom of speech, The Nationals’ Member for Northern Victoria, Gaelle Broad said.
The legislation contains a new harm provision where hate speech or conduct would amount to vilification if it is likely to be considered harmful by someone else.
Speaking in Parliament Ms Broad said: “Unfortunately, this Bill has flaws that risk undermining social cohesion rather than improving it.”
One of the primary concerns is the subjective nature of the new test for vilification.
“The test in this Bill would be what a person with the same protected attribute would be reasonably likely to find hateful. This makes it a far narrower test as to what might be considered vilification.
“Labor’s changes are a direct assault on open debate and differing opinions. Under these laws, honestly held views could land people in court if they are subjectively deemed offensive.”
Ms Broad said it was important to have thoughtful legislation that considers the long-term interests of the community, rather than Labor’s reaction to the Greens’ hard-left demands.
“Labor’s changes are a direct assault on open debate and differing opinions. Free speech, faith and conscience are being sacrificed for ideological appeasement.”
The Nationals and Liberals opposed the poorly drafted laws, and the Legislative Council debated the reforms until 3.30am. Labor passed the Bill by adopting amendments put forward by The Greens.
“These amendments downgrade freedom of expression and are a deliberate attempt to silence religion and faith-based voices.”
Ms Broad said the National and Liberal parties remain committed to expanding protected attributes and strengthening criminal protections – but not by undermining the rights of others.
Ms Broad said a future Liberal-National Government would:
- Restore the ‘reasonable person’ standard.
- Reinstate police powers to lay charges for hate speech and threats.
- Protect freedom of belief, worship and expression.
- Ensure justice remains accessible, swift and fair.
Media Contact: Linda Barrow 0484 303 764 linda.barrow@parliament.vic.gov.au
