In November last year the Albanese Government was forced to withdraw its appalling Misinformation Bill.
The Bill was an attack on free speech, and was condemned by tens of thousands of Australians through the public submissions process.
It also drew strong criticism from groups including the Human Rights Commission, civil liberties bodies, the Australian Law Council, and religious institutions.
Leading lawyer Professor Anne Twomey even described it as “a fiasco”.
The fact that the legislation was put forward is a shocking indictment on the Albanese Government.
The Coalition will carefully review the Misinformation Bill Mark II, and will focus on defending the free speech that is a fundamental right of every Australian.
It’s clear that there remain very substantial issues with the Bill. For instance, the Bill confers a power on Minister Rowland to personally order specific investigations into “misinformation”.
In a great and proud democracy such as Australia, this is an extraordinary provision.
It’s clear that the Government has not learned the lessons of its first botched attempt to introduce this legislation.
The Coalition will always stand up for the rights of ordinary Australians to express their political views.
Shadow Minister for Communications
Member for Banks
Hon. David Coleman MP