Australian State Plans To Ban Six-Word Phrase Under New Law Carrying Possible Jail Time

Queensland is preparing to ban a well-known pro-Palestine phrase as part of new hate speech reforms being introduced by the state government.

The phrase “from the river to the sea” may soon be prohibited in Queensland, with the proposed change coming in direct response to the Bondi terror attack. Fifteen people were killed during a Hanukkah celebration in December, an event that shocked the nation.

A further 40 people were injured in the attack, which has been described as the deadliest incident in Australia since the 1996 Port Arthur massacre, when 35 people lost their lives.

Premier David Crisafulli outlined the government’s plans on Sunday, February 8, with the legislation expected to be introduced to parliament on Tuesday, February 10.

According to The Guardian, the bill would ban the public distribution, publication, display, or recitation of certain proscribed phrases. This would apply in cases where the language is used with the intent to threaten, harass, or cause offense.

"We called this out from the beginning, we said we'd act, and through this legislation, we are delivering a strong and considered response," Crisafulli said.

15 people were killed in the Bondi terror attack) DAVID GRAY/AFP via Getty Images

"This is about drawing a clear line – and stamping out the embers of hatred that were allowed to burn unchecked for too long – to ensure we protect Queenslanders."

Under the proposed laws, anyone found using a banned phrase could face a prison sentence of up to two years if the speech meets the legal threshold outlined in the bill.

What does 'from the river to the sea' mean?

The slogan, which in full reads “from the river to the sea, Palestine will be free,” refers to the geographic area stretching from the Jordan River in eastern Israel to the Mediterranean Sea in the west.

Critics argue the phrase implies a call for the elimination of Israel. Activists, however, say the slogan is meant to express support for Palestinian freedom and does not promote hatred or violence against Israelis.

Attorney General Deb Frecklington said: "These sayings have no place in Queensland when they are used to incite hatred, offence and menace."

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli Ian Hitchcock/Getty Images

Queensland Jewish Board of Deputies president Jason Steinberg said the proposed reforms send a strong message that antisemitism and hate speech will not be tolerated in the state.

"Our community greatly appreciates the commitment by the Crisafulli Government to ensure Jewish Queenslanders can live, work and play just like any other Queenslander."

"This Bill moves beyond words and delivers real, practical protections for our community and for all people targeted by hate."