Equality Australian welcomes hate speech bill passing Vic Lower House

Feb 20, 2025 – Equality Australia has welcomed the passing of anti-vilification protections through Victorian Parliament’s Lower House, saying the Bill offers the first ever protections for LGBTIQ+ people against hate speech. 

The Justice Legislation Amendment (Anti-vilification and Social Cohesion) Bill expands the state's hate speech laws to protect people if they are vilified based on disability, gender identity, sex, sex characteristics or sexual orientation. 

“We call on those MPs in the Upper House to support this Bill which recognises that all Victorians deserve to be protected from hate and bigotry,” said Equality Australia CEO Anna Brown. 

“This Bill is long overdue and offers the first ever protections against hate speech for women, people with a disability and the LGBTIQ+ community.” 

Ms Brown said attacks on LGBTIQ+ people were increasing, especially against the trans community. 

“Only a few weeks ago it was reported that a neo-Nazi handed out vile and transphobic flyers at a community event in Ballarat - a sad reminder of the horrendous and hateful neo-Nazi gathering outside Victorian parliament not long ago,” she said. 

“Every one of us has the right to feel safe if we’re at a public event, engaging in online spaces or simply walking down the street.” 

Ms Brown said anti-vilification protections were about “cutting off hate at its source” before it ends in acts of violence. 

“The fair and decent thing to do is protect any community or vulnerable minority that is being targeted by hate and violence,” she said. 

“Every Victorian should be able to go about their daily life without fearing being harassed, attacked or demeaned simply because of who they are.” 

Media contact: Tara Ravens 0408 898 154