National News
NSW Government Planning Introduction Of New Laws To Combat LGBTQIA+ Hate Crimes
The NSW state government has now confirmed it will introduce a swathe of laws in a bid to better protect the LGBTQIA+ community on Tuesday.
Premier Chris Minns initially flagged the reforms after an ABC investigation last month revealed gay and bisexual young people were being targeted in a spate of Islamic State (IS)-inspired attacks in Sydney, and the bashings were among scores of attacks since 2023 on LGBTQIA+ people who were lured on dating apps and bashed on camera by young people radicalised by a mix of extremist influences.
Under the proposed changes, anyone found guilty of publicly threatening or inciting violence against someone because of their sexuality or gender identity would face up to five years’ jail instead of the current three-year maximum. An aggravated version of this offence would also be created and would result in a maximum of seven years behind bars upon conviction.
The legislation would also include the creation of a new offence directed at those who use dating apps and other means to lure victims with the intent of harming them.