The High Court of Australia has agreed to hear Pauline Hanson’s appeal against a ruling that she racially vilified Greens senator Mehreen Faruqi. The case centres on a 2022 tweet in which the One Nation leader told Faruqi to go back to Pakistan after Faruqi commented on the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
This episode explains why the Federal Court found the post breached section 18C of the Racial Discrimination Act, why Hanson lost her first appeal, and what she is now asking the High Court to decide. Her challenge raises two constitutional questions. Did the Commonwealth have the power to enact section 18C, and does it go too far in restricting political communication?
The High Court granted permission to appeal on 5 November 2026. The Federal Court ruling still stands while the appeal is pending. Hanson framed the case as a fight for free speech, while Faruqi said “bring it on” and defended legal protections against racial vilification.
Where should Australian law draw the line between robust political debate and racial vilification? Share your view in the comments.
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