Victoria Responds to Synagogue Attacks with Tougher Protest Laws

Victoria Proposes Ban on Protests at Places of Worship to Tackle Rising Antisemitism

MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — In response to a sharp rise in antisemitic incidents, the government of Victoria, Australia, has proposed new laws to ban protests outside places of worship, ensuring religious communities can gather without fear or intimidation.

The move comes after a series of alarming attacks, including an arson attack on a Melbourne synagogue earlier this month and a protest that trapped worshippers inside a Sydney synagogue for three hours.

Premier Jacinta Allan announced the proposed measures, stating:

“That’s not peaceful protest. It’s menacing behavior. Antisemitism is a cancer, and we must leave no stone unturned to fight this evil in all its forms.”

Key Provisions of the Proposed Law

If passed by the state legislature next year, the laws would:

• Establish safe access zones around places of worship, prohibiting disruptions to religious gatherings.
• Ban the display of terrorist symbols and flags, particularly those associated with groups listed as terrorist organizations.
• Prohibit the use of face masks by protesters to conceal their identities or protect against police measures like capsicum spray.

Rising Concerns Amid Global Tensions

The recent arson attack on the Adass Israel Synagogue on December 6 marked an escalation of targeted violence in Australia. Authorities have classified the attack as a terrorist act, unlocking additional investigative resources to address the threat.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas, which began over a year ago in Gaza, has amplified tensions globally, including within Australia’s multicultural society.

Australia’s Response to Growing Extremism

The federal government has already taken steps this year to combat extremism and discrimination:

• In January, a law was passed banning the Nazi salute and public displays of Nazi symbols.
• Special envoys were appointed to address both antisemitism and Islamophobia.

Premier Allan emphasized that the new measures aim to protect social cohesion and ensure that Victoria remains a safe, united community where people of all backgrounds can worship freely.

“We will not tolerate any form of racism. These laws are about building stronger, safer communities for all Victorians,” Allan added.

Australia’s growing diversity was highlighted in the 2021 census, where for the first time, Australians born overseas or with at least one parent born overseas became the majority of the population.

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