Senator Pauline Hanson and Barnaby Joyce Call for Section 18C to Be Scrapped

August 25, 2026
At the heart of the battle for free speech is section 18C of the Racial Discrimination Act. Barnaby was right, it needs to be scrapped. The impact that section 18C has had on free speech in this country and democracy has been chilling. Pauline’s recent court battles have made this very clear. Robust political debate is critical for our democracy.
Barnaby was also right to point out that, like on so many issues, some of the Liberals are prepared to talk a good game on this in private, but they do not have the courage or the political backing to make their views public.

Section 18C makes it unlawful to act in a way that is reasonably likely to offend, insult, or intimidate a person because of their race or nationality. The way it is written allows broad interpretation and opens the door for it to be weaponised for political ends.

In appealing to the High Court, Pauline is fighting for all Australians who are likely to get drawn into the tentacles of section 18C through exercising their right to free speech.