In an historic moment a new law making it a criminal offence to knowingly display a Nazi symbol in public without a reasonable excuse, was passed NSW Parliament yesterday.
The new offence in the Crimes Act 1900 will carry a maximum penalty of 12 months’ imprisonment or a $11,000 fine or both for an individual; or a fine of $55,000 for a corporation.
Significant for survivors of the Holocaust
Attorney General Mark Speakman said the passing of the Crimes Amendment (Prohibition on Display of Nazi Symbols) Bill 2022 is a significant moment for survivors of the Holocaust and their loved ones.
‘The events that occurred under the Nazi regime represent one of the darkest periods of recorded human history,’ said Mr Speakman.
‘The atrocities committed during that period are almost unimaginable, and the intergenerational trauma they have caused continues to be felt by many people today.
‘This new offence sends a clear message that the display of Nazi symbols, and the hatred and bigotry they represent will not, and should not, be tolerated.
‘This new criminal offence will provide important, additional safeguards against hate speech and vilification in our State.’
Mr Speakman said the Bill contains broad exceptions to allow Nazi symbols to be displayed where it is in the public interest in good faith, including for an academic, artistic or educational purpose.
Victory for multicultural society
Minister for Multiculturalism Mark Coure said the passing of this Bill is a victory for the state’s rich multicultural society.
‘This Bill shows that our Government stands against the Nazi symbol and the hateful ideology it represents.
‘This bill will also protect those that use a swastika for religious and spiritual reasons including Buddhists, Hindus and Jains. It clearly states that the displaying of a swastika in connection with these spiritualties will not be deemed a Nazi symbol.’
NSW Jewish Board of Deputies CEO Darren Bark said that this is an historic day for New South Wales. ‘It’s a significant blow to those who promote hate and vilification in our community. Nazi symbols are a gateway to violence and are used as a recruitment tool by extremists.
‘Banning their display is a long-overdue and much-needed law in our state. The perpetrators will finally be held to account.
Legislation a game-changer
‘The legislation is also a game-changer in tackling online hate. It is time our tech companies step up and ensure these illegal symbols are removed from their platforms, and the offenders banned and prosecuted.
‘We acknowledge and thank the NSW Government, the Opposition, the Hindu community and all MPs who joined together in taking a stand against hate, wherever it appears.’
Hindu Council of Australia national vice-president Surinder Jain said that for the Hindu community, today is extra special. ‘This legislation will not only protect our community from those who wish to cause harm, it frees our sacred swastika from its indoor prison.
‘For too long, the Hindu community has not felt comfortable to display our symbol of peace because it resembled a symbol of evil. This is no longer.
‘We were so pleased to work with the Jewish community to make this a reality.
‘Thank you to everyone involved in this important work for the benefit of our entire
community.’
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