Australia Passes Mandatory Minimum Sentences for Hate Crimes After Labor Reversal

Prime Minister Albanese overruled key ministers to adopt the policy, drawing bipartisan support but criticism from legal experts and some within his party.

The Australian government approved mandatory minimum prison sentences for antisemitic and terror-related offenses, with penalties ranging from one to six years.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese reversed his stance and overruled Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus, who opposed the policy as counterproductive and inconsistent with Labor's platform.
The legislation was introduced following a rise in antisemitic incidents, including vandalism, arson, and the discovery of explosives targeting Jewish sites.
Jewish organizations welcomed the move as a strong message against hate crimes, while critics, including legal experts, warned it undermines judicial discretion and could lead to unjust outcomes.
Some Labor MPs expressed frustration over the rushed process and hope a planned two-year review will lead to the repeal of the mandatory sentencing provisions.

Australian Broadcasting Corporation

The Sydney Morning Herald