Explaining Victoria’s anti-hate laws – an overview – video transcript

No matter who we are, what we believe, how we look, where we come from or how we live our lives, we all deserve respect and to feel safe.  We all belong. That’s why vilification anti-hate laws have been strengthened in Victoria. Hate can cause real harm when it targets people for parts of their identity that can’t be changed. Vilification isn’t “just words”. It’s hate speech and hateful behaviour, that can lead to discrimination, harassment and even violence. Hate isolates people and silences voices. It can stop us being our full selves.It affects mental health, erodes confidence and belonging. It can make us feel targeted, unsafe and alone simply because of who we are. The changes to the law provide stronger protections from hate speech and hateful behaviour. Encouraging others to hate is still against the law, and now it is also against the law for someone to be hateful towards you because of who you are. More of us are now protected against hate, including people with different identities, backgrounds and personal characteristics. Protections apply if someone is subjected to hate because of their disability, gender identity, race, religion, sex, sex characteristics, sexual orientation, or because they are associated with someone with one or more of those characteristics. Protections apply everywhere in public, including online and in the community. These laws aren’t about stopping debate or disagreement. They set boundaries to protect people from the real harm caused by hate, especially those who are often targeted. You can share your views – but freedom of expression does not include conduct that can harm, threaten, intimidate or dehumanise others. Each of us has a role to play in building belonging in our communities. We can pause  and choose language that respects others. We can challenge hate when we see it and it’s safe to do so. And we can stand with those who are targeted.If you think you have experienced hate speech or hateful behaviour, the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission is here to help. You can learn more on our website at www.humanrights.vic.gov.au or call us on 1300 292 153 to speak with our trained staff. We can give you information on making an anonymous report or formal complaint. If hate conduct might be a crime, we can also refer you to Victoria Police with your consent. Thanks for watching. Let’s work together to build belonging in Victoria. This video was produced by the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission.