Gov’t Cracks Down On Public Displays Of Nazi Ideology In New Laws
Image: NoticerNews/X; Bianca De Marchi/AAP
New laws introduced in NSW Parliament on Wednesday will see greater restrictions on public displays of Nazi ideology, with those convicted facing up to two years in prison and a $22,000 fine.
The changes come less than two weeks after a government-approved neo-Nazi rally took place at the gates of state Parliament, organised by the National Socialist Network.
On November 8, around 60 men gathered on Macquarie Street, holding a banner calling for the abolition of the “Jewish lobby”, with Premier Chris Minns blaming its authorisation on a “communication breakdown”.
Proposed amendments to the Crimes Act would make it an offence to publicly show support for Nazi ideology through slogans, chants, or other Nazi “characteristics” without reasonable excuse.
The reforms would see those engaging in such conduct facing up to a year’s imprisonment or a maximum fine of $11,000, with stronger penalties of up to two years’ imprisonment or a $22,000 fine applying to someone who commits the offence near a synagogue, Jewish school or the Sydney Jewish Museum.
Refusing to follow this direction without reasonable excuse will become an offence punishable by a maximum fine of $2,200 or up to three months’ imprisonment.
“The deplorable stunt we saw outside NSW Parliament has no place in our society,” said Attorney General Michael Daley. “Nobody should be subject to this vile hatred because of their background or faith.”
Extended police powers authorised
The offences would still apply if a protest is authorised, with police having the power to determine if their behaviour reflects Nazi ideology.
Police will also be able to order someone to reveal their identity, if the information would help officers in an investigation of suspected Nazi conduct.
“We are giving police and the courts additional powers to hold Nazi extremists to account for their abhorrent views,” Daley said.
“These tough new laws are complemented by the suite of legislation the Government has already put in place to protect against racial vilification and hatred.”
Introduced on Wednesday, the laws are set to be referred to a lower house committee, and won’t be passed before the end of the year.
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