SYDNEY, Australia — Australia introduced sweeping anti-hate crime laws on Thursday, imposing mandatory jail sentences for acts such as giving a Nazi salute or committing terror offenses, in response to a sharp rise in antisemitic incidents across the country.
Under the new legislation, individuals convicted of less serious hate crimes, such as publicly performing a Nazi salute or displaying hate symbols, face a minimum jail sentence of 12 months, while those convicted of terrorism-related offenses could serve up to six years.
The state of New South Wales (NSW), which has seen the highest number of antisemitic attacks, announced that it would further strengthen its hate crime legislation to align with measures already in place in Victoria and Western Australia.
Speaking about the urgent need for reform, NSW Premier Chris Minns said the rise in hate speech and violent incidents demanded immediate action.
“Well, the circumstances we are confronting in our community are so extreme that they require changes to the law,” Minns said. “I don’t believe the laws as they currently stand adequately confront this danger. We reviewed the Law Reform Commission’s recommendations, studied other jurisdictions, and considered evidence from the field to make these changes.”
Recent months have witnessed a surge in antisemitic attacks across Australia, including vandalism of synagogues, damage to Jewish-owned buildings and vehicles, and the discovery of a caravan packed with explosives alongside a list of Jewish targets in Sydney.
Law enforcement agencies have reported an escalation in hate-motivated violence, prompting state governments to respond with stricter measures.
“These laws send a clear message that hate crimes have no place in Australian society,” Minns added, emphasizing the government’s commitment to protecting vulnerable communities.
