Shadow Minister for Citizenship and Multiculturalism, Michelle Rowland, recently congratulated the multicultural groups, individuals, and communities across Australia who fought hard against the Government’s proposed changes to sections 18C and 18D of the Racial Discrimination Act that were dropped.
The Government’s proposals would have watered down the protections against racist hate speech that have served our nation well since 1995.
The announcement is a victory for all the individuals, multicultural and community groups across Australia who strongly opposed these changes.
The Labor Party stood united with the community against these regressive changes from the outset.
Over 4,100 submissions were received in response to the exposure draft amendment, with a vast majority of submissions opposed to the proposed changes.
Despite the overwhelmingly negative response to the Government’s proposals, the Prime Minister and Senator Brandis continued to entertain the idea of these changes for months, during which time the Attorney-General declared that people have a right to be bigots.
The multicultural communities of Australia fought hard and united on this issue. They have won the public argument that bigotry has no place in modern Australia.
Ms Rowland said the Government’s proposed amendments showed an alarming lack of understanding and appreciation of the dynamics of Australia’s diverse society.
“One of our country’s proudest achievements is our multicultural society. Every Australian deserves the right to live free from racial and ethnic vilification,” Ms Rowland said.
“These changes should never have been on the table in the first place. The very fact that these changes were being seriously considered by this Government was in itself considered to be deeply offensive by many in our community.”
Published in Indian diaspora magazine, Sydney
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
