Anti-Israel protesters are being warned not to wave any terrorist symbols at today’s rallies, marking a year since the October 7 attacks.
Federal police are investigating a previous Melbourne protest where Hezbollah flags were displayed despite hate symbol laws passed earlier this year.
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The laws were passed in January in response to the display of Nazi symbols, but they also cover listed terrorist organisations such as Hezbollah.
A person won’t simply be arrested for carrying a flag, but for inciting hatred or advocating violence that is likely to intimidate or insult someone based on their race, religion or ethnicity.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allen said the Melbourne protest on Sunday stayed fairly calm.
“Yesterday’s protest, I’m advised, was largely peaceful there were three arrests for people behaving inappropriately,” she said,
“But it does again demonstrate that Victoria Police has the powers. and the tools and the resources that they need.”
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