Statement from the Queensland Human Rights Commissioner Scott McDougall on recent and planned anti-immigration rallies

There is no place for racial hatred or vilification in Queensland.

In the wake of the anti-immigration rallies last weekend, and potential future rallies, the Queensland Human Rights Commission stands with our vibrant migrant communities and acknowledges the stress that these events have on them. We thank the vast majority of Queenslanders who recognise and celebrate the great strength in our diverse communities.

The Queensland Human Rights Commission acknowledges and upholds the right to freedom of expression, association and participation in public life which are central to the functioning of our democratic society.

However, expression that vilifies, intimidates, demeans or promotes hatred of others is not an exercise of freedom. Such conduct corrodes the very foundations of democracy and is incompatible with the values of an inclusive and equitable Queensland society.

Queenslanders are protected from such abhorrent behaviour through law. Vilification, which is a public act that incites hatred towards, serious contempt for, or severe ridicule of a person or persons on the ground of race, is prohibited under the Anti-Discrimination Act 1991. Serious vilification is a criminal act under the Criminal Code.

Protecting vulnerable communities from vilification and hate-motivated behaviour is essential to ensuring equality and non-discrimination – basic rights which are fundamental to the enjoyment of all other rights.

A society that rejects vilification is one that strengthens democracy and ensures that the human rights of all people are respected and protected.

Queensland must be that society.

I acknowledge the work of the Queensland Police Service in successfully respecting the right to freedom of expression while ensuring the safety of all Queenslanders, but I reiterate that incidents of racial hatred or vilification, as we have recently seen in Victoria, should not be tolerated in any form in Queensland.

- ENDS

Media Contact

QHRC Media

Email: comms@qhrc.qld.gov.au

Phone: 0407 657 411