Zero tolerance for assaults on Indians: Australian foreign minister

Within hours of a fresh incident of violence against Asians in his country, Australian foreign minister Stephen Smith today said they have zero tolerance for assaults on Indians or against anyone else who comes to Australia.

"Regrettable, we know as I said to my Parliament that there have been some racial or racist overtones to a small number of those assaults and we condemn them absolutely," he said.
   
Smith pointed out that several steps have been taken to ensure that when people visit his country they have an "enjoyable and safe experience".