Australia and Oceania

Trusted news agencies tracing tendencies of democratisation and autocratisation globally

Equality before the law and individual liberties10. March

Australia grants asylum to 7 from Iranian women's football delegation

Freedom of expression21. January

Australian Parliament passes gun restrictions and anti-hate speech law

Equality before the law and individual liberties08. January

Australia's leader announces a royal commission into antisemitism

Individual liberties22. December

After beach attack, Australia plans tougher rules on gun ownership

On Sunday, Australia commemorated the 15 people who lost their lives in the terrorist attack at Bondi Beach a week earlier. As the country continues to mourn, new proposals are being put forward on how Australia's government intends to prevent such acts of violence in the future.

AFP English

Freedom of expression18. December

Australia announces new hate speech laws after Bondi terrorist attack

The effects of the terrorist attack on Bondi beach continue to reverberate throughout Australia and the world as the first funerals are held and several remain hospitalised. PM Anthony Albanese has now announced a reform of the country's hate speech laws.

DNA

Freedom of expression and alternative sources of information12. December

Reddit challenges Australia's social media ban for under 16s

US social media site Reddit is taking the Australian government to court over its ban on social media for under-16s. The ban affects all platforms. Reddit argues that the ban violates freedom of speech principles and is intrusive.

DNA

Freedom of expression25. November

Far-right senator suspended from Australian Senate for wearing burqa

Pauline Hanson stunned the Australian Senate by shoing up in a burqa, earning her a suspension from seven sitting days. This isn't far-right Hanson's first proverbial rodeo, she has campaigned for a burqa ban for years.

DNA

24. October

Women sue over sexual abuse in Australian military

Women who allegedly suffered widespread and systemic sexual abuse, harassment, discrimination and victimisation while serving in the Australian defence force are taking part in a class action against the commonwealth.

DNA

03. September

Australia sanctions 14 for repression of civil society in Russia

Australian Foreign Minister Wong has announced sanctions on Russian leaders responsible for repressing rights in Russia. Wong was speaking before a meeting with Yulia Navalnaya, whom she described as a "fearless voice for democracy in Russia."

DNA

26. August

Australia says Iran behind anti-Semitic attacks, expels ambassador

In its first diplomatic expulsion since World War II, Australia has ordered the Iranian ambassador out. Prime Minister Albanese accused Tehran of direct involvement in attacks on Australia's Jewish community. Ambassador Sadeghi and three other diplomats must leave within a week.

DNA

05. June

New Zealand parliament suspends lawmakers who performed Māori haka in protest

Three New Zealand lawmakers were suspended from parliament after performing a haka in protest against a widely unpopular bill, with their political party, Te Pāti Māori, saying this signals parliament has sent a message that Māori identity is a threat to New Zealand’s democracy.

DNA