It is also a criminal offence to incite racial hatred by threatening physical harm to a person or property, or inciting others to do so. If the act or action happened privately between you and someone else when no-one else was around, such as in a private telephone conversation or in someone s private home, it is not unlawful racial vilification. If it was relatively minor, or a light-hearted joke, it is probably not unlawful racial vilification. If you or your property were threatened or subject to violent attack, you should contact the police. These behaviours are criminal offences and should be dealt with by the police.
Freedom of expression is important in our society.
Material presented in parliament. Material presented in court or tribunal proceedings or other government inquiries - unless it is malicious or exaggerated. You can also complain to the Editor or Manager of the media organisation. For complaints about neighbours talk to the Community Legal Centres. Other legislation in relation to racial discrimination also exists.