Canberra, January 15, 2026 – The Europe Today: Australia’s proposed reforms on hate speech and gun control are encountering significant opposition from multiple parties, casting uncertainty over whether the legislation can pass Parliament next week.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese recalled lawmakers from their summer recess to consider a combined bill that would authorize a gun buyback scheme and simplify the prosecution of hate speech. The legislation was introduced in response to the December Bondi Beach shooting, media reported.
Conservative opposition leaders have raised concerns that the bill could infringe on free speech and called for additional time to debate its provisions. Meanwhile, the Greens expressed objections over potential impacts on political protests and migration rules. While the Labor Party holds a majority in the lower house, it requires support from the Greens to secure passage in the Senate.
Jewish community leaders urged Parliament to approve the reforms, emphasizing that the changes would accelerate the prosecution of hate crimes, despite broader concerns about civil liberties.
The government indicated that amendments to the bill remain possible as negotiations continue with other parties ahead of the planned vote.
