A parliamentary inquiry in New South Wales has been cautioned that outlawing the slogan 'Globalise the Intifada' would disproportionately affect Muslim Australians and could stifle legitimate political discourse. The warning came during hearings examining legislative responses to the Bondi Junction stabbing attack earlier this year.
Concerns Over Disproportionate Impact
The inquiry, established by the NSW government in the wake of the tragic Bondi attack in April 2024, is scrutinising potential expansions to hate speech legislation. Representatives from the Australian Muslim Advocacy Network (Aman) presented evidence, arguing that a blanket ban on the contentious phrase would unduly target their community.
Mariam Mohammed, a legal advisor for Aman, testified that while the network condemns violence, the phrase is often used in a broader political context concerning Palestinian solidarity. She emphasised that criminalising such speech would create a chilling effect on community expression and could be perceived as discriminatory, particularly following the intense public and political focus on the Bondi incident.
The Context of the Bondi Attack and Legislative Response
The push for new laws gained momentum after the 13 April 2024 attack at Westfield Bondi Junction, where six people were killed. In the aftermath, the phrase 'Globalise the Intifada' was seen graffitied in parts of Sydney, sparking significant political debate and calls for its prohibition.
The NSW government, led by Premier Chris Minns, proposed reforms to the state's Crimes Act, seeking to ban symbols and phrases deemed to incite violence. However, the inquiry has become a forum for examining the balance between public safety and free speech.
Broader Implications for Free Speech and Community Relations
Legal experts and civil liberty groups have echoed concerns about the proposed ban's scope. They argue that defining and outlawing specific political slogans is legally complex and risks encroaching on freedoms protected under Australian law.
The inquiry heard that any new legislation must be precisely drafted to avoid capturing peaceful protest or academic discussion. There is a palpable fear that Muslim Australians could face heightened scrutiny and prosecution under overly broad laws, potentially exacerbating social divisions rather than healing them.
The committee is expected to deliberate on the testimony and produce a report with recommendations. Its findings will significantly influence whether NSW proceeds with a ban on phrases like 'Globalise the Intifada' or seeks alternative methods to address incitement to violence while protecting community harmony.
