Australia news live: NSW announces new powers to shut down illegal hate preaching venues; 300 buildings lost in Victoria fires

Chris Minns said councils will have the power to cut off utilities if operators ignore planning laws and cease-use notices. Follow the latest updates liveGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastThe Minns government said this morning it will give councils new powers to crack down on illegal hate preaching venues, including allowing utilities to be cut off if operators ignore planning laws and cease-use notices.The government said in a statement the effort was part of reforms meant to shut down “factories of hate”, including strengthening penalties for non-compliance and ensuring shutdown notices carry renewed weight. A release from the NSW government said:Freedom of religion is a fundamental right in NSW. But that freedom does not extend to operating unlawfully or putting community safety at risk.There is no place in NSW for hate, intimidation or extremism masquerading as community activity. These reforms give councils real powers to act when premises are operating unlawfully and spreading division. If operators ignore the law and refuse to shut down, councils will be able to cut off utilities and close them for good. Continue reading...