How hate speech legislation changes can influence artistic expression

How hate speech legislation changes can influence artistic expression

New hate‑speech laws introduced in Queensland have raised questions about how legislation designed to limit harm may extend into artistic expression. An RMIT expert explains what the changes could mean for musicians and freedom of expression.

Catherine Strong, Associate Professor, Music Industry 

"Music is political in many ways, from acts like Public Enemy whose songs are explicit political statements, through to songs such as John Farnham’s ‘Two Strong Hearts’ that are adopted by protest movements even though there is nothing inherently political about them.  

"Expressing opinions through music is generally considered part of the right to free speech that is a foundation of liberal democracies.  

"The status of Farnham’s song is unclear. Recent changes to Queensland legislation are part of a suite of new laws being introduced at state and federal level in Australia regarding hate speech that could be used against musicians and other artists. 

"While the legislation contains specific exemptions for artists, there is limited knowledge on how these provisions will be interpreted or enforced in practice. 

"It raises questions about the negative effect that laws like this can have on artistic expression."

Catherine Strong is an Associate Professor in the Music Industry program in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT. Her work focuses on social justice in music and other creative work.

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General media enquiries: RMIT External Affairs and Media, 0439 704 077 or news@rmit.edu.au

24 April 2026

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