Freedom of speech, association and religion

The yarn

• People in Australia should be able to express their ideas freely, so long as it is within the law. People are free to meet in public or private for social or political discussion, and newspapers, television and radio have the same freedom.
• Australians are allowed to peacefully protest against the actions of the government — tolerance of peaceful public protest is an essential part of democracy.
• It is never acceptable to promote violence against another person or group. It is also illegal to make false allegations or encourage others to break the law.
• People are free to join or leave any group voluntarily as long as it is within the law. Individuals cannot be compelled to join an organisation or forced to leave it.
• Australia has no official national religion. The government treats all citizens equally, whatever their religion or beliefs. Religious laws have no legal status in Australia.
• Polygamy and forced marriage are against the law in Australia and can result in severe legal penalties, including imprisonment. Religious intolerance is not acceptable.