The Minns Labor Government is strengthening the law to protect our community from threats and incitement of violence based on their race, religion or affiliation.
No one should have to encounter public hate due to their cultural background or religious beliefs and it is time that our law was strengthened to reflect this.
The new Anti-Discrimination Amendment (Religious Vilification) Act 2023 makes it unlawful to incite hatred towards, a person or group of people, because of their religious beliefs or affiliations.
This new amendment is intended to strike an appropriate balance between protections from vilification and discrimination while ensuring appropriate freedom of speech and expression.
As Premier of NSW, I want to make it clear that there is no room for threats or incitement of violence in our State.
Hate speech that incites violence or threatens violence based on a person’s race or religion is completely unacceptable in our community.
NSW is the most successful multicultural state in the world. Our people come from all different cultures and backgrounds, with 1 in 3 of us born overseas and 1 in 2 with a parent born overseas.
This multiculturalism must not only be protected but promoted. We must all choose peace and solidarity over hatred and division.
That is why I am making these much-needed changes to our laws to help protect the peaceful, thriving and multicultural heart of New South Wales.
My hope is that this law will reduce harassment and public vilification incidents – and beyond that, it sends a strong message that religious discrimination is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
Multiculturalism connects and unites people from all over the world. It is so important that we actively promote community harmony and social cohesion in NSW.
I have already committed $15 million over 2 years for Community Language Schools as well as delivered up to $15,000 to community groups that support multicultural festivals and events across NSW.
Yours sincerely,
The Hon. Chris Minns MP
Premier of New South Wales
Member for Kogarah
