I am deeply concerned about the current push to fast-track a draft legislation created by the Anthony Albanese government that proposes to ban hate speech, yet exempts religious groups from these regulations for referencing and teaching purposes. This legislation,  has the potential to protect extremists, allowing them to exploit religious texts like the Quran to propagate violence. This not only leaves the public vulnerable but restricts their ability to defend themselves adequately against radical ideologies.

In today's digital age, social media platforms can easily become vehicles for spreading extremist teachings. By exempting religious groups, this legislation creates a loophole that can be exploited by those who seek to indoctrinate and spread harmful ideologies under the guise of religious teaching.

Online extremist content is on the rise. According to the Global Internet Forum to Counter Terrorism, two thirds of content posted is re-shared within the first 2 hours. If religious groups are allowed to quote and reference hate speech under this drafted legislation, we risk facilitating the spread of this content further.

Allowing religious groups to reference or quote hateful content for teaching purposes, without scrutiny, creates a dangerous precedent. It makes the public less safe and compromises the goal of fostering a tolerant and secure society.

We need legislation that does not make exceptions permanent merely on the basis of religion. Everyone should be held to the same standard of accountability when it comes to spreading potentially harmful ideologies.

I urge leaders and lawmakers to reconsider the implications of this clause. We must ensure that our laws are inclusive and protective for all members of society, without exception. 

Please join me in calling for the cessation of this fast-tracking process. It's time for us to stand up and demand legislation that truly protects every individual and holds all groups equally accountable.

Sign this petition to make your voice heard and to press for legal changes that ensure both security and equality in our society.