The AGE argues that Malcolm Turnbull's proposed changes to section 18C of the Racial Discrimination Act is unnecessary and potentially destructive and this is apparently an attempt to appease the hard right at the expense of community cohesion.
The AGE points out that the debate centres on section 18C of the act, with the wording transformed into a totem for culture warriors who seek, in the pungent phrase of Attorney-General George Brandis, "the right to be a bigot". The issue has erroneously been cast as a matter of protecting free speech.
Mr Turnbull has sought to justify the change by arguing "we are defending the law by making it clearer".
The paper argues this is a proxy campaign largely driven by a misguided belief Australian society should not change to reflect the rich diversity of its people and migrants.
And places an emphasis on that Mr Turnbull should stand for a tolerant and inclusive Australia, not undermine for the sake of his sagging political fortunes.
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