Does the government understand its own hate laws?

The government passed new gun control and hate speech legislation in a special parliamentary sitting, but what impact will they have on Australian democracy? Amy Remeikis and Bill Browne join Ebony Bennett to discuss how having fewer guns in the community will make Australians safer. However, the complex anti-hate legislation that was rushed through at the same time could have serious consequences for Australian society. A time for Bravery: what happens when Australia chooses courage is available now via Australia Institute Press. Use the code 'POD5' at checkout to save $5 off the price – available for a limited time only. Where it all went wrong: the case against John Howard by Amy Remeikis is available for pre-order now. Guest: Amy Remeikis, Chief Political Analyst, the Australia Institute // @amyremeikis Guest: Bill Browne, Democracy & Accountability Director, the Australia Institute // @browne90 Host: Ebony Bennett, Deputy Director, the Australia Institute // @ebonybennett Show notes: Federal Government passes new firearm, hate speech laws , The Point (January 2026) The Point Live with Amy Remeikis , The Point (January 2026) Every four hours, a gun is stolen in Australia , the Australia Institute (October 2025) Australia's Gun Ownership Scorecard: A Growing Problem in Need of Reform , the Australia Institute (January 2025) Attorney-General attempts to explain extent of hate speech laws | 7.30 , @ABCNewsInDepth on YouTube (January 2026) Would half of Australians prefer a One Nation MP to a Labor one? by Bill Browne, The Point Theme music: Pulse and Thrum; additional music by Blue Dot Sessions We'd love to hear your feedback on this series, so send in your questions, comments or suggestions for future episodes to podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au . Support Follow the Money:

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Does the government understand its own hate laws? is an episode from Follow The Money by The Australia Institute.

This episode is 33:45 long.

This episode was published on Jan 21, 2026.

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