Queensland unveils toughest anti-hate laws with bans on extremist slogans and symbols

The Queensland Government will introduce sweeping new legislation this week aimed at cracking down on antisemitism, terrorist symbolism and intimidation at places of worship, in what it describes as the strongest reforms of their kind in the state's history.

The reforms, to be tabled in Parliament, are designed to ensure Queenslanders can live, worship and gather safely, with a particular focus on protecting faith communities following a rise in antisemitic incidents.

The legislation delivers a comprehensive package of measures targeting the public display of terrorist symbols and slogans, as well as significantly strengthening penalties for threats, harassment and damage to places of worship. The reforms follow the December Bondi terror attack and form the first tranche of broader anti-extremism measures promised by the government.

Premier David Crisafulli said the laws draw a clear line against hatred and extremist behaviour.

"We called this out from the beginning. We said we would act, and through this legislation we are delivering a strong and considered response," the Premier said.

"This is about stamping out the embers of hatred that were allowed to burn unchecked for too long and ensuring Queenslanders are protected.

"The Jewish community has been clear - Queensland needs stronger laws backed by real enforcement, and that is exactly what we are delivering."

Stronger protections for places of worship

Under the proposed laws, penalties for crimes targeting religious practice will be significantly increased. Assaulting or threatening a person officiating a religious ceremony will carry a maximum penalty of five years' imprisonment, up from two years.

New offences will also be created for impeding or harassing people attending religious services, punishable by up to three years in prison. Wilful damage to a place of worship will become a specific offence with a maximum penalty of seven years' imprisonment.

Attorney-General Deb Frecklington said the legislation delivers practical, targeted protections.

"This Bill represents a focused and practical step forward for Queensland," she said.

"It bans terrorist symbols and phrases, improves safety around places of worship, and reinforces our commitment to keeping Queensland a safe and inclusive state for everyone."

Tougher penalties for terrorist symbols and slogans

The Bill will also strengthen existing bans on extremist imagery. Penalties for displaying terrorist symbols will increase from six months to two years' imprisonment, with the prohibition expanded to include symbols linked to terrorist organisations or state sponsors of terrorism.

These include Nazi symbols, the Hamas flag and emblem, the Islamic State flag, and the Hizballah emblem.

In addition, the legislation proposes a new offence banning the public distribution, publication, display or recitation of prescribed extremist slogans when used to cause menace, harassment or offence. Phrases proposed for prohibition include "globalise the intifada" and "from the river to the sea", carrying a maximum penalty of two years' imprisonment.

Community support for reforms

Queensland Jewish Board of Deputies president Jason Steinberg said the reforms were a vital step toward restoring community confidence.

"For the past two and a half years, the Jewish community has endured unprecedented levels of hate, intimidation and fear," Mr Steinberg said.

"These reforms send a clear message that antisemitism and hate have no place in Queensland.

"This Bill moves beyond words and delivers real, practical protections - not just for Jewish people, but for all communities targeted by hate."

The legislation is expected to be introduced to Parliament this week.