The New South Wales government’s proposal to ban the phrase 'globalise the intifada' has drawn criticism from Muslim and civil liberties groups, who warn it risks importing repressive models from the United Kingdom. A parliamentary inquiry into the ban, launched after the Bondi attack, has received submissions arguing that the measure would disproportionately affect Muslim Australians and stifle legitimate political speech.
The Australian National Imams Council (ANIC) said the phrase lacks a single meaning and banning it would be 'likely to disproportionately affect Muslim Australians, including Palestinian and Arab communities'. The Palestine Action Group (PAG) echoed this, urging the government to 'exercise extreme caution' and avoid adopting 'oppressive policies' reminiscent of the UK, where police have arrested protesters using the phrase since December.
Jewish groups, however, have welcomed the proposed ban. The NSW Jewish Board of Deputies described it as a 'watershed moment', while the Executive Council of Australian Jewry called for legislation 'broad and flexible enough to capture changes in symbolism'. Academics like David Slucki noted that while intent and impact differ, the phrase is perceived as threatening by many in the Jewish community.
Civil liberties advocates also voiced concerns. The NSW Council for Civil Liberties warned that criminalising slogans could undermine social cohesion and freedom of political communication, questioning how courts would determine 'community expectations'. It advocated for education and human rights-based approaches instead of 'blunt instrument' laws.
The inquiry, which closed to submissions on Monday, will not hold public hearings. The government has yet to decide on legislation, with Premier Chris Minns previously describing the phrase as 'hateful, violent rhetoric'.
