Queensland Bans Antisemitic Phrases, Tightens Gun Laws

0:00It's March 2nd in Sydney, let's get into the news. Queensland's government made last-minute tweaks to its hate speech bill on Monday night. The changes specifically banned two phrases seen as anti-Semitic from the river to the sea and globalized the Intifada. These will now be listed outright in the law and adding more would need fresh legislation and parliamentary approval. Originally, the bill gave the Attorney General broad power to outlaw any expressions during violence or offense. But after heavy criticism, leaders pulled back, Attorney General Dev Frecklington said they listened to Queenslanders. The push came after the Bondi Beach terror attack to fight rising anti-Semitism. Groups like legal experts and civil liberties advocates slammed the initial wide powers. The Queensland Jewish Board of Deputies backed it, saying those phrases fuel intimidation against Jewish people. Breaches can mean up to two years in jail. The bill also packs in gun reforms, like requiring new license applicants to be Australian citizens.

1:02It ramps up penalties for stealing guns, trafficking and drive-by shootings, especially at places of worship. This response to the Weembilla shootings in 2022 that killed two officers and a bystander. Parliament should debate and pass everything this week. Opposition leader Stephen Miles says, labor backs the intent but calls the gun changes week, leaving Queensland behind other states. They skipped a national gun buyback, too. Support for this episode comes from our sponsor. See the description. When you want calm, do not reach for your phone. Lay back and listen. S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com S-O-L-L-I-SoliPillow.com S-O-L-L-I-SoliPillow.com S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com