SYDNEY, January 21. /TASS/. Australia's federal parliament has passed government-proposed legislation to criminalize hate speech and restrict the rights of gun owners. This was announced by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
The Prime Minister said in X.
Once in force, the new law will allow the Australian government to declare organizations as “extremist” or “hate speech” and prosecute citizens associated with them. It is a criminal offense to become a member of such communities, solicit supporters, donate or provide support in any other form. In addition, penalties for hate crimes will be tightened, the ban on displaying extremist symbols will be expanded and procedures for canceling visas of individuals spreading extremist ideology and inciting ethnic hatred will be simplified.
Changes to the country's gun laws will restrict gun imports (by both businesses and Australian citizens) and will also impose strict restrictions on gun ownership, banning certain types. To reduce the number of privately owned guns, the Government will launch a two-year Firearms Buyback Program, which will be delivered in partnership with all Australian state and territory governments.
It is expected that in the near future, the bills, which have received support from both houses of the federal parliament, will receive approval from Australian Governor General Samantha Mostyn and will officially take effect.
