Australia news live: Liberal senator Andrew Bragg says he ‘strongly disagrees’ with Tony Abbott on multiculturalism

Australia's assistant minister for multicultural affairs, Julian Hill, expressed deep condemnation on Thursday after watching a video released by former Prime Minister Tony Abbott, who currently serves as president of the Liberal Party. In the video, Abbott asserts that "multiculturalism in Australia has failed," a claim that Hill called "disgusting" and "demeaning to nearly 1 million Australians." The footage, shared on X by former Deputy Prime Minister John Anderson, included Abbott criticizing Muslim communities and stating that "diversity is not our strength." Hill appeared on ABC’s Afternoon Briefing and criticized Abbott's remarks as reflecting outdated and offensive views. He noted that the Liberal Party had chosen Abbott as its leader just months earlier, despite his controversial positions. "They made him their president. That was a choice they made," Hill said, emphasizing that the party could not distance itself from such views. Abbott's comments come amid growing concerns over rising tensions around immigration and cultural integration in Australia. His video, which has sparked immediate backlash, highlights a broader ideological divide within the nation's political landscape. The content of the video includes statements questioning the role of religion in public life and suggesting that Australia's identity should prioritize national unity over diversity. The release of the video has triggered a wave of criticism from various sectors of Australian society. More than 40 civil society organizations have issued a joint statement expressing grave concern over the potential impact of such rhetoric on social cohesion. These groups argue that divisive language risks undermining the principles of inclusivity and respect that underpin Australian democracy. Julian Hill emphasized the need for the Liberal Party to address such rhetoric promptly. "We have religious freedom in this country, people are free to worship in the way that they want or worship no God," he stated, underscoring the importance of protecting individual rights and freedoms. Hill warned that allowing such views to remain unchallenged could erode trust in institutions and alienate minority communities. The controversy follows recent developments in other areas of Australian politics, including discussions around artificial intelligence legislation and the closure of a queer-inclusive arts space in New South Wales. These issues reflect a broader context of societal change and the challenges faced by policymakers in balancing diverse interests. Meanwhile, the Australian Federal Police continue their investigation into child abuse, releasing images of clothing items linked to the case and appealing for public assistance. This comes alongside reports of increased fuel prices due to geopolitical tensions involving Iran and the U.S., further complicating the economic outlook for many Australians. As the situation unfolds, attention will turn to how the Liberal Party responds to the backlash against Abbott's comments. With the upcoming Senate inquiry into telecommunications services and the continued focus on addressing modern slavery, the political climate remains charged with uncertainty. The government faces mounting pressure to ensure policies promote unity while addressing pressing social and economic challenges.