Queensland's new hate speech laws could make it the first Australian state to ban the slogan 'from the river to the sea'. Premier David Crisafulli announced the proposed legislation on Sunday, citing the Bondi terror attack as a direct response. The laws would prohibit the public distribution, publication, display, or recitation of proscribed phrases intended to cause menace, harassment, or offence. Attorney General Deb Frecklington confirmed that 'globalise the intifada' and 'from the river to the sea' would be included as proscribed phrases. These sayings are seen as inciting hatred and offence. In New South Wales, a parliamentary inquiry recommended banning 'globalise the intifada' when used to incite violence. The phrase 'from the river to the sea' refers to the land between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea, and has been a subject of debate. Critics argue it calls for the elimination of Israel, while supporters claim it supports Palestinians as free and equal citizens. The laws also introduce penalties for impeding religious services and assault or damage to places of worship, with the Jewish community welcoming the reforms to enhance their safety and confidence.
