Queensland is set to introduce new hate speech laws, with penalties including two years in prison. Queenslanders who use symbols and slogans dubbed 'hate speech' could face two years in prison under new laws. Symbols and slogans linked to Nazi propaganda as well as the Israel-Palestinian conflict are set to be banned in Queensland. It will be an offence to use the slogan 'from the river to the sea' as well as 'globalise the intifada' in a public place, both of which have connections to the Middle East conflict, leaders said. Premier David Crisafulli claimed the laws would directly target antisemitism. 'This is about drawing a clear line and stamping out the embers of hatred that were allowed to burn unchecked for too long,' he said. 'The Jewish community has been clear: Queensland needs stronger legislation backed by real enforcement to drive out antisemitism.' The new laws are similar to those rolled out in New South Wales in the wake of the Bondi terror attack, where 15 people were shot dead at a Hanukkah by the Sea event in Sydney last year. Victoria has also strengthened its hate speech laws twice last year. As part of the bill, assaulting or threatening a person officiating at a religious ceremony or damaging a place of worship could lead to seven years' prison. Display of the Hizballah emblem will also be banned. The penalty for displaying terrorist symbols has also been increased from six months imprisonment to two years' prison. Queensland Attorney-General Deb Frecklington claims the new legislation proves the government is backing and protecting the Jewish community. 'This Government is doing everything possible to stop the rise of antisemitism,' she said. '[The bill] introduces targeted reforms to ban terrorist symbols and phrases and improve safety around places of worship.' NEVER MISS A STORY: Get your breaking news and exclusive stories first by following us across all platforms. Download the 9NEWS App here via Apple and Google Play. Make 9News your preferred source on Google by ticking this box. Sign up to our breaking newsletter here.
