Star Observer – VIC Hate Speech Laws Set To Be Expanded to Protect Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity & more

Facebook
X
LinkedIn
Reddit
Tumblr

This article was originally published by the Star Observer. You can find the original article here.

image

The Victorian government is set to expand the state’s hate speech laws, which would offer better protections for both the LGBTQIA+ and disabled communities.

The current laws, specified under the Racial and Religious Tolerance act, currently only protect people who may be vilified based on their race or religion.

The new expansion would include gender identity, sex, sexual orientation, and disability.

The government is also proposing to expand criminal offences, making it easier for police to bring criminal charges against someone.

The changes have been developed alongside community feedback since 2023.

Concerns from religious groups like Melbourne Catholic Archdiocese

Although the laws haven’t yet been tabled, they’re already receiving mixed responses from religious and community groups, with the Melbourne Catholic Archdiocese raising concerns .

A spokesperson for the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne told the ABC that it abhorred vilification of any kind but had concerns about religious freedom.

“Laws seeking to address genuine vilification should avoid ambiguous or imprecise language that creates confusion or that ends up causing more division in the community,” the spokesperson said.

Attorney-General says proposed hate speech laws ‘squarely about protecting vulnerable people’

“This isn’t about curtailing people’s ability to practice the religion that they hold. This is squarely about protecting vulnerable people from hate speech,’’ Attorney-General Jaclyn Symes said to the ABC.

“If there are communications that are done in reason, in genuine good faith observance of religious practice, that will be an exception under the laws as it currently is.”

Under the new laws, police would only need to prove incitement of hatred or threats of physical harm or damage.

Although, a new defence of political purpose would be introduced for incitement, in order to protect free speech.

Complaints could be made for behaviour that occurs in private or public, including online, and has some religious groups worried about how the laws could be weaponised against religious teachings.

Transgender Victoria ‘looking forward’ to changes to hate speech laws

In a statement made to the ABC, CEO of Transgender Victoria, Son Vivienne said they were looking forward to supporting the proposed changes.

“It’s really deep and powerful when we see lawmakers actually acknowledge our right to be the way we are regardless of how we present, or our pronouns, or our names.”

This article was originally published by the Star Observer. You can find the original article here.

More to explore

Transcend – New evidence-based resources on gender affirming healthcare.

Living True, Living Better, a vital evidence-based resource pack countering harmful disinformation about gender-affirming healthcare for transgender young people, was launched today at Parliament House by Transcend Australia, in partnership with AusPATH and supported by Equality Australia and LGBTIQ+ Health Australia.  This comprehensive resource pack provides accurate information to guide decision-making for families, caregivers, health […]

Trans Justice Project – Trans Healthcare Guide

Trans healthcare is essential for all trans individuals, encompassing routine care and gender-affirming treatments like hormones and surgeries. Healthcare providers must understand trans issues and respect our identities. Many face obstacles such as stigma and costs, but gender-affirming care is life-changing and endorsed by major medical organizations.

QNews – Vigils across Australia for Trans Day of Remembrance 2024

Trans Day of Remembrance (TDOR) is an annual observance on November 20 that honours the memory of the trans lives lost to acts of transphobia and discrimination. On November 20, the community holds a day of gathering, togetherness, and community solidarity. We remember those we’ve lost, celebrate our strength in the face of adversity, and …

Want to keep up with the latest news and advocacy?

Emails only sent out on new posts! Read more in our privacy policy!