Tasmania has become the first Australian state or territory to ban the Nazi salute and the display of Nazi symbols.
Offenders could face penalties of up to three months in jail or a $3,900 fine for first-time offenses.
The bill sends a “very clear message” that “hateful and offensive conduct is not welcome in our State,” Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Elise Archer said.
“We strongly condemn any display of hate in our community, and I am very pleased to have personally driven these important reforms that will help us deliver a safer and more caring community for all.”
“The Bill inserts new offences in the Police Offences Act 1935 which prohibit the display of Nazi symbols and the use of a Nazi gesture.
“Importantly, it also acknowledges the continued importance of the swastika to the Buddhist, Hindu and Jain communities, and clearly states that the display of a swastika in this context is not an offence.
The law changes includes a defence for performing the gesture for legitimate purposes such as academic, artistic, religious, scientific, cultural, educational, legal or law enforcement reasons.
The laws are expected to come into effect later in 2023.
