NSW Parliament Proposes Expanded Ban on Public Display of Prohibited Symbols
Legislation has been introduced to the New South Wales (NSW) parliament that expands existing bans on the public display of terrorist symbols. The proposed law will now encompass symbols associated with all prohibited organizations.
The new bill specifically targets symbols affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and Hizb ut-Tahrir, which was recently outlawed.
Key Groups Under Scrutiny
The legislation directly targets symbols linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and Hizb ut-Tahrir. Hizb ut-Tahrir was recently designated as an outlawed organization, bringing its symbols under the scope of this new bill.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Under the proposed law, individuals publicly displaying flags or wearing clothes with insignia of these groups could face significant legal consequences. These penalties include a prison sentence of up to two years, a $22,000 fine, or both.
For corporations found in violation, the proposed fines are substantially higher, reaching up to $110,000.
Alignment with Federal Action
NSW Attorney-General Michael Daley stated that the Labor-drafted bill aligns with actions previously taken by the federal government. He affirmed that the legislation's primary objective is to address and combat extremist activities within the state.