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Albanese Splits Package After Greens Reject Hate‑Speech Measures

Labor now seeks Senate numbers for a standalone gun bill following a retreat from its broader response.

Overview

  • The Greens joined the Coalition in opposing Labor's omnibus hate‑speech plan, while saying they will back separate gun reforms.
  • The government is moving to strip the most contentious anti‑vilification provisions and introduce firearms changes in a standalone bill.
  • The original package proposed listing or banning hate groups, tightening visa rules for people who spread hatred, creating new offences targeting promotion of hatred, and establishing a national gun buyback.
  • Parliament has been recalled for an emergency sitting next week, leaving Labor needing either Coalition or crossbench support in the Senate for any narrowed measures.
  • Legal experts, civil‑liberties groups and faith leaders have warned the draft was rushed and overly broad, with a multi‑faith letter urging the prime minister to shelve anti‑vilification laws that could curb religious expression.