Quoting religious text could be defence against Australia’s new hate speech laws, draft bill shows

The Guardian - World NewsEN 3 min read 100% complete by Krishani DhanjiJanuary 12, 2026 at 03:00 PM

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Australia's government is introducing new hate speech laws targeting hate preachers and hate crimes, with parliament set to convene early to pass the legislation. The draft bill makes it illegal to promote hatred based on race or ethnicity, but includes a legal defense for directly quoting religious texts for religious teaching or discussion. The laws aim to combat antisemitism and extremism, prompted by a recent terror attack. The legislation will introduce new offenses, increase penalties, create a prohibited hate group list, and establish a gun buyback program. The home affairs minister will gain visa cancellation powers. The attorney general claims these will be the toughest hate laws Australia has ever seen.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Port Arthur 40% Labor 50% Guardian Australia 50% Coalition 50% Bondi ×260% Michelle Rowland 70% Australia ×280% Anthony Albanese ×290%

Keywords

hate speech laws 100% religious text 80% legal defence 70% australia 60% hate preachers 60% racial vilification 50% extremism 50% anthony albanese 40% gun buyback program 40%

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Negative

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The Guardian - World News

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90%

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hate speech laws religious text legal defence australia hate preachers racial vilification extremism anthony albanese gun buyback program

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