Pride flags stolen from outside Hobart’s Town Hall have been replaced, as police launch an investigation into the incident.
Three flags were reportedly removed from their flagpoles on the busy Macquarie Street last week.
“The fact the flags are flying again shows that love wins,” Equality Tasmania spokesperson Rodney Croome said.
“The possibility the theft may have been hate-motivated highlights the need for public authorities to show their support for the LGBTIQA+ community and opposition to prejudice.”
His organisation is working with the council to ensure the replacement flags are “more secure”.
Police LGBTIQA+ Coordinator Inspector Scott Mackenzie confirmed authorities were aware of the incident and had launched an investigation.
“We are taking this matter seriously and collaborating with the Hobart City Council to identify those responsible and bringing them to justice,” he said.
The Tasmanian Government is currently advancing new legislation to impose harsher penalties on individuals who commit crimes motivated by race, discrimination or hate.
