Important Announcement on Anti-Vilification Laws

The Victorian Government, led by Premier Jacinta Allan, has unveiled proposed reforms to expand protections under the Racial and Religious Tolerance Act. These changes will cover additional factors such as gender, sexuality, and disabilities, while also addressing exemptions for freedom of expression in areas like art, academia, and religion.

Under the proposed laws, individuals inciting hateful or threatening behaviour could face penalties of up to five years in jail.

The JCCV welcomes this announcement as a significant step in creating a safer and more inclusive Victoria. Our work has been highlighted in several articles discussing this important development.

Read more about these reforms and their impact here:

‘United against American-style division’: Long-awaited anti-vilification reforms reach parliament – The Age

Victoria strengthens vilification laws – The Australian Jewish News

Jewish leaders urge Allan gov‘t to fast-track hate speech laws that could jail those who incite hatred – Herald Sun

Beefed-up hate laws won’t touch religious free pass – J-Wire