Federal ministers brawl over planned religious freedom laws

FEDERAL Government Cabinet Ministers have brawled over planned religious freedom laws with accusations the process has been a disaster.

FEDERAL Government Cabinet Ministers have brawled over planned religious freedom laws with accusations the process has been a disaster.

In a sensational leak, it is understood Kelly O’Dwyer ­labelled the political tactics on the Ruddock Review a disaster from start to finish.

Review recommends strengthening anti-discrimination laws

The Government is expected to release its long-awaited response to the review, ordered by former prime minister Malcolm Turnbull after the legalisation of gay marriage, by the end of the week.

Attorney-General Christian Porter provided more details to Cabinet in Melbourne on Tuesday after being asked to do “more homework”.

The review, headed by ­former Howard government immigration minister Philip Ruddock, recommended no changes to the Marriage Act.

Former Liberal minister Philip Ruddock headed the review. Picture: Mick Tsikas/AAP

However, it is understood it recommended religious beliefs be better protected through beefed up anti-discrimination laws. It means religion will have the same protection as race and sexual orientation.

It is also believed the review flagged a new legal pathway for aggrieved parties. Firstly, there would be conciliation via the Australian Human Rights Commission. If that failed, it could go to a federal court.

It is understood there have also been discussions about forming a parliamentary inquiry to consider some of the review’s recommendations.

It is understood that Ms O’Dwyer was extremely vocal about the origins of the review, which has become marred in a debate about discrimination of gay students in private schools.

She would not comment, but several colleagues spoke up about the need to protect religious freedom.

It is understood that some believe it could be used as a political tactic when fighting Opposition Leader Bill Shorten at the next election.