Australia has passed new anti-hate crime laws, which include mandatory minimum sentences for displaying hate symbols, such as the Nazi salute. This legislation comes in response to a rise in antisemitic acts across the country.

Australia's parliament passed an amendment to its anti-hate crimes law on Thursday, broadening protections for various groups. This legislation also introduces mandatory minimum sentences for terror-related offenses and the display of hate symbols, such as the Nazi swastika.

The new law sets mandatory minimum sentences ranging from 12 months for less severe hate crimes, such as performing a Nazi salute in public, to six years for those convicted of terrorism-related offenses.

The Hate Crimes law prohibits threats of force or violence targeting individuals based on their race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, and other factors.

Like many countries, Australia has witnessed an uptick in attacks against Jewish communities, including vandalism of synagogues, Jewish buildings, and personal property. In recent months, there have been notable incidents such as the arson attack on a synagogue in Melbourne in December and the discovery of a caravan containing explosives, accompanied by a list of Jewish targets in Sydney.

"We want people who are engaged in antisemitic activities to be caught, charged, and put in the clink. That’s my priority," Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said following the passage of the law.

Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke emphasized that the changes represented the "toughest laws Australia has ever had against hate crimes."

While Albanese's Labor government has traditionally opposed mandatory minimum sentences, it voted in favor of the bill on Thursday. Mandatory sentencing in Australia has faced strong criticism due to its disproportionate impact on Indigenous populations and young people.

However, as a federal election approaches, Albanese is facing increasing pressure to address the growing issue of antisemitism.