A Brisbane man has become the first to be charged under Queensland’s new vilification laws over an alleged antisemitic electronic sign.
From April this year, vilification protections under Queensland law became stronger. The changes mean that: Displaying certain hate symbols that cause a member of the public to feel menaced, harassed or offended is a crime.
Detectives from the Counter-Terrorism Investigation Group (CTIG) arrested the 52-year-old at his Morningside home.
Police executed a search warrant at the Bundara Street residence yesterday, December 11, seizing the sign, a computer, and a phone.
As a result of the investigation, he has been charged with one count each of serious racial, religious, sexuality, or gender identity vilification, serious assault and obstructing police.
The man will appear before Brisbane Magistrates Court today.
The Queensland Jewish Board of Deputies (QJBD), the roof body representing Queensland’s Jewish community, has praised Queensland’s counter-terrorism police for their swift and decisive action in arresting two men this week in connection with separate, unrelated antisemitic incidents.
“Incidents of hate against Jews in Queensland have reached unprecedented levels. In the wake of the recent terrorist attacks and fire-bombings in Melbourne and Sydney, many in our community are experiencing heightened fear and anxiety,” QJBD President Jason Steinberg said.
“Jewish Queenslanders deserve to feel safe and to live peacefully in one of the best states and countries in the world. It is deeply reassuring to see the outstanding work of our police force in identifying and apprehending individuals who pose a threat to our community.
“These two arrests send a powerful message to those who spread hate against Jews, or any minority, that such actions will not be tolerated in Queensland.
“With Queensland’s new racial vilification laws now in effect, it is encouraging to see them being enacted to hold perpetrators of hate crimes accountable. We urge all Queenslanders to stand united against hate and to show their support for the Jewish community.
“Now more than ever, we need everyone’s support to foster a society where all people can live free from fear and prejudice,” Mr Steinberg said.
Assistant Commissioner Charysse Pond said everyone in Queensland has a right to feel safe and racial vilification would not be tolerated.
“We urge people to remain respectful and we strongly condemn anyone who incites violence and hatred within our community.
“There is no place for anti-Semitism or prejudice or hatred of any kind.
“As a result of a recent legislative change in Queensland, instances of serious vilification and hate crime are now criminal matters and police will act against those responsible.”
Members of the public are encouraged to report incidents of hate crimes and serious vilification to the Queensland Police Service through Policelink 131444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
 with assistance from Morningside Station have charged a 52-year-old Morningside man, following an investigation into the alleged display of an electronic sign featuring offensive racial vilification.){kind=link}