New Federal Hate Crime Offences: What You Need to Know

In a significant legislative development, Federal Parliament introduced new offences under the Criminal Code to strengthen the national response to hate crimes. The amendments concern conduct directed at individuals or communities because of protected attributes including race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, nationality, national or ethnic origin and political opinion.

New Offences Under the Criminal Code

The amendments address conduct including:

1. Threatening force or violence against groups, their members or close associates.
2. Advocating damage or destruction of property associated with a protected group.
3. Threatening damage or destruction of property associated with a protected group.
4. Advocating force or violence through property damage.

Penalties

The applicable offence, elements and maximum penalty depend on the precise provision charged and the alleged conduct.

How ED Legal Can Assist

ED Legal provides advice and representation in serious State and Commonwealth criminal proceedings. If you are facing an allegation under the Criminal Code, see our Criminal Law services or contact ED Legal.

This article provides general information only and is not legal advice.