The Greens believe the LNP’s plan to criminalise certain phrases at the Minister’s discretion - without the review of Parliament - is undemocratic and Orwellian.
The party has not yet seen the proposed legislation and will review it in full once introduced, but strongly opposes the Premier’s stated intention to criminalise the use of phrases like “from the river to the sea” to “cause offence”.
Greens MP Michael Berkman:
“The Government is making itself the thought police. If they decide your words are offensive, you can go to jail for them. Is that the kind of democracy we want to live in?
“The best tool against extremists, racists and bigots is a strong, diverse community that looks after its people, especially the most vulnerable.
“You can’t legislate away hatred or discrimination. This is just kneejerk authoritarianism from politicians who want to look like they’re doing something.”