Jan. 19 () –
The Western Australian state government announced Wednesday that it will introduce a bill to criminalize the display and possession of Nazi symbols.
Once the legislative reforms are approved, the use of Nazi symbols, including tattoos, will be prohibited, establishing penalties that include prison for those who violate the law.
“The display of Nazi symbols is offensive to many members of society, and in particular to the Jewish community, Holocaust survivors and their families, and those who have fought against fascism,” the government office statement said.
The attorney general, John Quigley, has indicated that the government of the state’s premier, Mark McGowan, “will not tolerate hate groups that seek to sow fear, division and violence in our multicultural society.”
However, Quigley has acknowledged that there are “legitimate uses” of the swastika that will not form part of the legislation, such as those used for academic purposes or press reporting, as well as the linking of the symbol in some religions where it is related to the peace.
For the Council of the Jewish Community in Western Australia, “this legislation is a triumph of civilization” in the state against “haters” who use these symbols as a sign of unity.
“The Jewish community joins the vast majority of Western Australians in applauding this legislation, which will protect our free, open, inclusive and cohesive society,” said Council Chairman Geoff Midalia.
Victoria and New South Wales have recently passed legislation to criminalize the display of Nazi symbols, and Queensland and Tasmania have recently announced their intention to do the same.
