A controversial display in a Wagga Wagga shopfront, featuring images of Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, former Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack, and notable business figures like Clive Palmer and Gina Rinehart in Nazi-style uniforms, has ignited discussions about free speech and offensive material. NSW Police have assessed the situation and confirmed that, after legal consultation, the display does not violate any laws pertaining to prohibited symbols as outlined in the Australian Criminal Code.
The police were alerted to the display around 11:30 AM and subsequently engaged with a 69-year-old man associated with the business. Their investigation concluded that the material did not contravene the stipulated section 80.2E regarding prohibited symbols.
McCormack publicly denounced the display on Facebook, describing it as “beyond disgraceful.” He emphasised the historical atrocities committed by the Nazis, highlighting the Holocaust’s impact and calling the portrayal deeply insulting and offensive.
The business owner, Michael Agzarian, expressed that his intent was not to offend but to convey a message through his artwork. He acknowledged that while some individuals might find his work upsetting, his aim is to create thought-provoking pieces rather than cause distress. Following the backlash, the display was altered to include a pixelated version of McCormack.
Agzarian noted that the shopfront displays are regularly updated, implying that the controversial images will be rotated out in due course. Despite the ongoing debate surrounding the display, he seems committed to continuing his artistic expressions, albeit with the awareness of the reactions they may provoke.