Media release - Albanese Labor Government left behind on Post and Boast laws

Melissa McIntosh MP
Shadow Minister for Communications
Shadow Minister for Western Sydney
Federal Member for Lindsay

6 February 2025

Albanese Labor Government left behind on Post and Boast laws

Today, South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas has announced his State will outlaw posting and boasting, making it the sixth jurisdiction committed to end violent crimes being put online for notoriety, following Opposition Leader Peter Dutton’s lead.

In March 2024, the Coalition made a strong stand on post and boast laws by introducing a Bill to Parliament which sought to impose jail terms and provide stronger social media take-down powers.

Under the Coalition’s plan, a person could be jailed for up to two years for depicting violence, drug offences or property offences for the purpose of increasing a person’s notoriety.

The Albanese Labor Government demonstrated that it was weak on law and order when it refused to support the Coalition’s Bill.

The Coalition stands firm that a Dutton-led government will ensure post and boast laws are passed through Parliament to ensure no one is glorifying their criminal activity online.

Shadow Minister for Communications, Melissa McIntosh said, “the Prime Minister is once again missing in action when it comes to important legislation to keep Australians safe.

“Australian communities have had enough of criminals and young offenders committing violent actions against individuals and boasting about it via social media.

“We have seen horrendous footage of homes being invaded and people being accosted at night.

“The Albanese Labor Government has one week left to pass the Coalition’s post and boast legislation to ensure we outlaw people streaming criminal activity for notoriety.

“The Prime Minister and his Labor government are not listening to the Australian community who are outraged by the on-going criminal activities being put online and are concerned for their safety.”