Queensland's New Hate Speech Laws: Arrests and Criticism

0:00The latest headlines, weather, and stories, right here on Sydney News today. Queensland has rolled out tough new hate speech laws banning the pro-Palestine slogans from the river to the sea and globalize the Intifada. The rules took effect yesterday after passing Parliament last week, using those phrases could land you up to two years in prison if it minises harasses or offends someone. Police made their first arrests under the laws on Wednesday during a protest, a 33-year-old man and an 18-year-old woman were taken into custody for chanting from the river to the sea. Greens MP Michael Berkman slammed the arrest, saying police are acting as thought police for the LNP state government. He called it a sign of an authoritarian police state. Critics are drawing parallels to the Joe Bielka Peterson era, when protests were heavily restricted back in the 1970s and 80s. Labor's Shannon Fenteman accused the government of controlling what people can say, while students for Palestine say it's meant to silence activists.

1:00Deputy Premier Jarred Blaji defended the crackdown, insisting the law is the law. The man faces court next month, the woman got in the dole caution, and police say their presence at rallies is just standard for safety. This DNA story comes to you, thanks to our sponsor. Relaxed deeper, reset faster, comfort you can hear, S-O-L-I-SOLY-PILLOW.com