An Australian state government has ignited a fierce national debate after introducing legislation that would criminalize the public use of a specific six-word phrase, with penalties that could include up to two years behind bars.

The proposal, framed by officials as a response to rising extremism and public disorder, would expand existing public order and hate-speech laws to cover language authorities say is increasingly being used to intimidate, threaten, or incite hostility in public spaces.

While lawmakers have avoided repeatedly amplifying the phrase itself during parliamentary debate, they have confirmed it is a slogan that has appeared frequently at recent protests, rallies, and online campaigns, triggering complaints from community groups and law-enforcement agencies.

Under the draft legislation, using the phrase in a public setting — including demonstrations, speeches, or potentially online posts linked to real-world events — could constitute a criminal offense if authorities determine it carries an implied threat, endorsement of violence, or intent to intimidate.