Women Speak Tasmania (WST) has lodged a formal submission to the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security opposing the Exposure Draft Combatting Antisemitism, Hate and Extremism Bill 2026.
While WST unequivocally condemns antisemitism, religious hatred, violence and genuine extremism, our submission argues that the draft Bill is over-broad, poorly defined, and vulnerable to misuse, particularly against lawful civil society groups that engage in robust public debate.
Of particular concern are provisions expanding offences related to “hateful conduct” and widening executive powers affecting speech, association and migration. Without strict safeguards, WST warns these measures could be used to suppress legitimate advocacy, including women’s sex-based rights, child safeguarding, political opinion, right to protest, access to goods and services and freedom of belief.
“Women’s organisations are increasingly labelled as ‘hateful’ simply for asserting biological reality or questioning public policy,” said Dr Elizabeth Caballero. “This Bill risks turning ideological disagreement into a matter of sanction.”
WST highlights international evidence showing that vague hate and extremism laws are often enforced selectively, disproportionately impacting minority viewpoints and grassroots advocacy groups rather than violent actors.
WST also raises concerns about the Bill’s compatibility with core democratic principles, including freedom of expression and the right of citizens to criticise government policy without fear.
Women Speak Tasmania has called on the Committee to recommend substantial amendments, including clearer definitions, stronger protections for lawful advocacy, and explicit safeguards for civil society organisations acting in good faith.
For further information contact:
Dr Elizabeth Caballero [email protected]
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