The federal government has begun the process of banning Islamist group Hizb ut-Tahrir under latest hate group laws, Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke revealed on Sunday.
New Legal Framework
The move follows advice from the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) that Hizb ut-Tahrir met the legal threshold for a ban. These laws were introduced after the Bondi Beach terror attack and target groups engaging in or advocating hate crimes based on race, nationality, or ethnic origin.
According to Minister Burke, his department will now prepare a briefing to demonstrate that the group increases the risk of hate-motivated violence. The opposition leader will then be briefed before the attorney-general finalizes the legal process.
This action marks the first time a group falling short of a terrorist listing could be banned. The new laws focus on groups acting in a way that increases the risk of communal or politically-motivated violence, even without explicitly calling for it.
The government previously announced its intention to ban both Hizb ut-Tahrir and the National Socialist Network, a neo-Nazi group that disbanded in January.
Hizb ut-Tahrir has chapters around the world and is already banned in several countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany, Egypt, Turkey, China, and several nations in Central Asia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the basis for banning Hizb ut-Tahrir?
The ban is based on advice from ASIO that the group met the legal threshold under new hate group laws, specifically regarding increasing the risk of hate-motivated violence.
When were these new hate group laws introduced?
The hate group laws were introduced after the Bondi Beach terror attack.
Is Hizb ut-Tahrir considered a terrorist organization?
According to Minister Burke, This represents the first time the government has been able to potentially ban a group which falls short of a terrorist listing.
As the government proceeds with this ban, what impact might it have on the broader discourse surrounding freedom of speech and national security?