Federal Court Upholds Racial Discrimination Act Provision in Hanson v Faruqi

The Full Federal Court on July 27, 2026 rejected Senator Pauline Hanson's argument that Section 18C of the Racial Discrimination Act — which bars racially offensive, insulting, or intimidating conduct — violates the Constitution's implied freedom of political communication (a judicially recognized limit on laws restricting political speech). Justices Perry, Kennett, and Bennett upheld the provision. Hanson may still seek High Court special leave (permission to appeal).