The swastika is an ancient symbol has been used by many cultures from across Asia, it has been used by Hindus, Buddhists, and other religions, it has symbolised good fortune.  

The rise of right wing groups in Germany during the early 20th century adopted the symbol to promote the "Aryan" movement.  In 1920, Adolf Hitler would use the symbol for the Nazi Party and the swastika would become the identifiable symbol of murder, hate, discrimination and prejudice. 

Post World War Two it has has been seen as the most recognised symbol of hate, antisemitism and white supremacy. Germany and some other countries have prohibited the display, recently the state of Victoria have banned the display of the symbol. 

By banning this symbol we send a clear message that symbols like the swastika have no place in our society and that white supremacy has no place in the world we live in. We send a clear message of support to all those communities who were persecuted by the reign of the Nazis from 1933-1945 that we respect you and your past that you should not be reminded of this dark time in the world's history.  

By allowing this symbol to be displayed you are sending a message to those white supremacy groups that it is ok to show symbols of hate and that we are not upstanders but bystanders.