Tasmania joins push to outlaw Nazi symbols
The Tasmanian government will introduce laws to outlaw the display of Nazi symbols.
It follows similar pushes in Victoria, NSW and Queensland.
The Tasmanian laws would outlaw symbols, including the swastika, for hate and fear.
They will still be allowed to be displayed for historic or educational purposes while also allowing Hindu and Buddhist groups to use it.
“Our government strongly condemns the display and sale of these symbols when used for hate and fear,” Attorney-General Elise Archer said on Sunday.
“This is an issue that is deeply concerning to me as attorney-general as well as many Tasmanians.”
Ms Archer will work with community groups to draft the laws while looking at changes proposed in other states.
Victoria is poised to become the first state to outlaw the symbols after its government introduced legislation to state parliament last month.
Queensland later announced similar plans.
NSW Attorney-General Mark Speakman in April committed to banning on waving Nazi flags or displaying memorabilia bearing swastikas following recommendations from a state parliamentary inquiry in February.
Jeff Schneider, presidemt of the Hobart Hebrew Congregation, told J-Wire: “In these times of rising antisemitism and extremism, we welcome this initiative from the Tasmanian Government. We look forward to collaborating with the Attorney General, local community members and our associates at the ECAJ on this important matter.
AAP/J-Wire
