WA: Government considering 14 year jail term for racist attacks

AAP General News (Australia)
08-05-2004
WA: Government considering 14 year jail term for racist attacks

The West Australia government is considering prison sentences of up to 14 years for
racially or religiously motivated crimes.

A consultation paper, to be considered by cabinet in coming weeks, proposes raising
the jail term for serious racial vilification from the current maximum of two years to
a possible 14 years.

Premier GEOFF GALLOP also says the publication, distribution or display of threatening
or abusive material, or material that intends hatred, contempt or ridicule, could be outlawed.

The move follows a spate of racist graffiti attacks in Perth, which have been linked
to JACK VAN TONGEREN's white supremacist Australian Nationalist Movement.

The consultation paper is also considering introducing a civil element to racial offences,
which would allow the public to initiate their own actions to claim damages, requiring
a significantly lower burden of proof than criminal offences.

AAP RTV tc/jo/rp

KEYWORD: RACIAL (PERTH)

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