In response to a surge in antisemitic and racist graffiti across Sydney, the NSW government has introduced proposed reforms that strengthen hate crime laws. The reforms target hate-motivated graffiti and offenses against places of worship, with increased penalties for offenders.
The NSW government has proposed tougher hate crime laws in a bid to curb recent antisemitic and racist graffiti across Sydney . The reforms introduce a new criminal offence for graffiti inciting racial hatred, punishable by up to two years imprisonment. It also criminalizes displaying a Nazi symbol on or near a synagogue, carrying an increased penalty of two years' jail time.
Premier Chris Minns stated that the laws were drafted in response to the recent 'horrifying' antisemitic attacks in Sydney. Minns emphasized that these are strong laws necessary to stop these attacks. He clarified that the new inciting racial hate laws apply to any attack targeting any religion or individual. 'These laws have been drafted in response to the horrifying antisemitic violence in our community, but it's important to note that they will apply to anyone, preying on any person, of any religion,' he stated. Sydney's Jewish community has been deeply affected by a series of antisemitic attacks in recent months, including vandalism at the former residence of prominent Jewish leader Alex Ryvchin. The reforms also amend the Graffiti Control Act 2008 to create a new aggravated offence for graffiti on any place of worship. A new offence under the Crimes Act will criminalize harassment, intimidation, or threats against individuals at places of worship. It will also be illegal to intentionally block or prevent someone from entering a place of worship without a valid reason. Attorney-General Michael Daley stated that 'Blocking access to places of worship, graffitiing sacred sites, or inciting hatred are wholly unacceptable behaviours that have no place in our society.' He added that these proposed changes 'strengthen penalties and expand police powers to maintain order across the community.'A funding boost of $525,000 was also announced for the NSW Police Force Engagement Hate Crime Unit to enhance community engagement, including more visits to schools and synagogues. Police and Counter-terrorism Minister Yasmin Catley stated, 'Police are doing everything they can to disrupt and investigate these vile crimes.
Hate Crimes Antisemitism Racism NSW Government Graffiti Places Of Worship Sydney
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