Since the 'war on terror', Governments around the world have taken the opportunity to pass strict, draconian laws that often end up curbing dissent and creative and media expression.

The Anti-Terrorism Bill that was introduced in late 2005 and passed in December makes seditious intent a crime punishable with 7 years in jail. The Bill was amended to link seditious intent with "force or violence" which offers some protection to artists and filmmakers. Prior to that, the freedom of expression of artists, filmmakers and journalists was significantly under threat. See ABC's Media Watch for their opinion.

Currently, the Australian Law Reform Commission is reviewing the Sedition Laws within the Anti-Terrorism Bill.

You can read more about the current status of sedition at: http://ozsedition.blogspot.com/

Below are some links that may be useful.

The History of Sedition Law

Wikipedia entry about Australian Anti-Terror Legislation

Anti-Terrorism Act (No. 2) 2005