The Victorian government is set to expand the state’s hate speech laws, which would offer better protections for both the LGBTQIA+ and disabled communities. The current laws, specified under the Racial and Religious Tolerance act, currently only protect people who may be vilified based on their race or religion. The new expansion would include gender identity, sex, sexual orientation, and disability. The government is also proposing to expand criminal offences, making it easier for police to bring criminal charges against someone. The changes have been developed alongside community feedback since 2023.