Sydney(The COW News Digital)The Australian government has announced plans to cancel visas of foreign nationals involved in spreading hate, following a series of violent incidents that have raised concerns over domestic security. Prime Minister of Australia, speaking at a press conference in Canberra, outlined the government’s comprehensive measures to curb hate speech and prevent violence.
The Prime Minister revealed that the Attorney General and the Minister of Home Affairs will implement reforms making hate speech that incites violence a criminal offense. Additionally, penalties for inciting violence through hate speech will be increased under the proposed legislation. Online threats and harassment cases will now consider hate as an aggravating factor when determining sentences, ensuring stricter accountability.
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Under the new measures, a registry of organizations whose leaders are involved in promoting violence or racial hatred will be maintained. The Home Affairs Minister will also be granted expanded powers to cancel or refuse visas for individuals deemed a threat to social harmony. This includes foreigners who may engage in hate-promoting activities after entering Australia.
A 12-month task force will also be established to strengthen Australia’s educational systems in addressing anti-Semitism and other forms of hate, ensuring schools and institutions can respond effectively to such threats. The initiative reflects a broader government strategy to safeguard communities and promote social cohesion.
The announcement comes just four days after a violent shooting at Bondi Beach in Sydney, where two armed attackers killed several individuals and injured forty others. One assailant was killed in a police encounter while the other was arrested on the spot. This tragic incident has intensified public and governmental calls to curb hate-fueled violence and strengthen preventive measures.
Experts say these reforms are designed to address both immediate security concerns and long-term societal impacts of hate speech. By targeting individuals who deliberately incite division and violence, authorities aim to create a safer environment for residents and foreign nationals living in Australia.
While human rights groups have emphasized the importance of balancing security measures with freedom of speech, officials argue that the proposed changes are necessary to prevent radicalization and maintain public safety. The visa cancellation mechanism is expected to be a key tool in stopping foreigners from exploiting Australian territory to spread hatred or incite violence.
As Australia moves forward with these reforms, the government stresses the importance of vigilance, education, and robust legal frameworks to ensure that incidents of hate-driven violence are minimized and communities remain protected.
