The Rockliff Liberal Government will task the Office of Parliamentary Counsel to examine how a ban on Nazi salutes can be incorporated into the Police Offences Amendment (Nazi Symbol Prohibition) Bill 2023 due for introduction this week.
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Elise Archer said Nazi salutes and the appalling message they send have absolutely no place in our society.
“It was deeply concerning to see the abhorrent actions of a group of protestors in Melbourne over the weekend and we do not want that in Tasmania,” the Attorney-General said.
“The use of the Nazi salute is offensive, distressing and a breach of our community and moral standards.
“I want everyone in our community to feel safe from these disturbing displays whether it be Nazi symbols or saluting, as they can cause hate and fear.
“Our Government will take immediate action to examine how the Police Offences Amendment (Nazi Symbol Prohibition) Bill 2023 (the Bill) can prohibit the Nazi salute.
“I believe these reforms will be nation-leading and will build on our commitment to create a more caring community for all Tasmanians.
“Given legislation of this nature is complex, we will task the Office of Parliamentary Counsel to this important task immediately to ensure it can operate as intended, with no unintended consequences.
“We are committed to ensuring our laws appropriately reflect community expectations and standards, which is why we have already taken steps to prohibit the display of Nazi symbols.
“Also prohibiting the use of the Nazi salute builds on this commitment and reaffirms our Government’s strong opposition to hate-motivated acts.
“The Bill will now incorporate these changes and I look forward to tabling it in Parliament later this week.”
