Peter Dutton’s coalition plans to introduce mandatory jail sentences for anyone displaying Hamas or Hezbollah flags, amid rising antisemitic incidents

In response to the increasing wave of antisemitism in Australia, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has proposed legislation that would impose mandatory jail sentences for individuals waving flags of terrorist groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah. The new law would enforce a minimum one-year prison sentence for those found guilty of displaying such flags, with potential six-year sentences for individuals convicted of terrorism-related activities.

The proposal follows recent antisemitic attacks in Melbourne and Sydney, which have targeted synagogues and Jewish communities. Dutton and Coalition members, including James Paterson and Jewish MP Julian Leeser, have argued that stronger laws are necessary to curb hate and violence against Jews. At a recent press conference at Bondi’s Central Synagogue, Paterson emphasized that current federal laws are insufficient, advocating for stricter measures to prevent threats against religious sites.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, however, has rejected calls for a national cabinet meeting to address the issue, with Dutton accusing him of playing politics to secure support in Green-held seats. Albanese has condemned the antisemitic acts, but the debate over how best to address the surge in attacks continues.

The Coalition’s hardline proposal follows actions in Victoria, where Premier Jacinta Allan has suggested a blanket ban on flags of listed terrorist organisations, including Hamas and Hezbollah, and a prohibition on protests outside places of worship.

In the wake of these tensions, NSW Premier Chris Minns is also preparing to introduce tougher hate speech laws to curb the spread of antisemitism. The Australian Federal Police recently launched Operation Avelite to target antisemitic activities, leading to several arrests, including one related to threats against Jewish community leaders.

The political landscape in Australia is growing increasingly polarized, as the government faces mounting pressure to take stronger action against hate speech and extremist symbols.