Reforms to improve freedom of speech

KEY POINTS FROM FREEDOM OF SPEECH REPORT:

* LEADERSHIP

Community leaders and politicians should identify and condemn racially hateful and discriminatory speech.

* SECTION 18C OF RACIAL DISCRIMINATION ACT

No repeal, but some MPs still say the words "offend", "insult" and "humiliate" should be replaced with "harass".

* HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION

Time limits on all aspects of dealing with complaints; commission must be fairer to all parties impacted by the complaint; commission can terminate a complaint if it has no reasonable prospect of success; cost orders to prevent frivolous claims; new guidelines for the HRC president in relation to complaint handing; appointment of a part-time judge to help deal with initial complaints.

* LABOR VIEW

Commission will need extra funding; current laws strike the right balance between free speech and freedom from racial abuse.

* GREENS VIEW

Keep Section 18C as is; enable the commission to terminate complaints that lack merit.