The Government Will Take Strong Action Against Terrorist Supporters at Pro-Palestine Rallies
The Australian government has announced a firm stance on dealing with individuals waving Hezbollah flags at recent pro-Palestine demonstrations in Sydney and Melbourne. The displays have drawn significant concern, with Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke stating that authorities are reviewing the visa status of any protesters who may pose a threat to public order.
“I won’t hesitate to cancel the visas of visitors spreading hate in our country,” Burke asserted. This decisive action aims to send a strong message that supporting terrorist organizations has no place in Australia.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese echoed this sentiment at a cabinet meeting, warning that such behaviour threatens Australia’s multicultural harmony. “We cannot allow radical ideologies to take root here. Our social cohesion and peaceful society must be preserved,” Albanese said, emphasizing that the government will not tolerate any efforts to bring conflict from abroad into Australian communities.
Opposition spokesman James Paterson added his voice to the call for action, stating that individuals displaying Hezbollah flags, who are on visas, should have them immediately revoked. “It’s a clear breach of the Commonwealth Criminal Code,” he said, noting that Parliament had amended the code last year to include the prohibition of symbols from terrorist organizations such as Hezbollah. “This is not a matter of free speech—it’s criminal behaviour that undermines national security.”
Australian Federal Police (AFP) confirmed on Monday that they are investigating at least six reports of crime from Victoria Police related to the display of prohibited symbols and chants. These cases are being examined for breaches of counter-terrorism laws. However, AFP clarified that the mere display of a prohibited symbol might not necessarily constitute a federal offense unless it meets specific criteria outlined in the Criminal Code. These criteria include incitement to hatred or violence, or the promotion of racial or religious superiority.
The government’s move to cancel visas and prosecute supporters of terrorist organizations sends a clear signal: Australia will not tolerate the spread of hate or extremism. The tightening of visa controls on those connected with terrorist groups is a necessary step to protect the nation’s values and the safety of its citizens. Such actions are in line with Australia’s robust counter-terrorism laws and aim to safeguard the social fabric from individuals who seek to undermine it.
Additionally, the government has appointed Aftab Malik as a special envoy to combat Islamophobia, further demonstrating its commitment to promoting social cohesion. Malik, recognized globally for his work on Muslim affairs, will engage with various communities and experts to tackle religious discrimination.
The appointment has been criticized by the Australian Palestine Advocacy Network (APAN), which called for a more inclusive anti-racism strategy that addresses the concerns of all marginalized communities. Despite these criticisms, the government remains focused on ensuring the safety of all Australians and preventing the spread of divisive ideologies.
The government’s proactive measures—including the potential deportation of visa holders who support terrorist organizations—underline its zero-tolerance policy towards extremism. Australia’s commitment to preserving peace and security within its borders is unequivocal.
