Feb 10, 2021 contributor Australian Archbishop Peter Comensoli of Melbourne prays during his installation Mass in St. Patrick's Cathedral Aug. 1, 2018. (Credit: John Casamento/Catholic Weekly via CNS.) Groups across a wide spectrum reacted with dismay and concern to passage of a law in the Australian state of Victoria to ban "conversion" practices. Some called it an attack on freedom of religion and speech. SYDNEY — Groups across a wide spectrum reacted with dismay and concern to passage of a law in the Australian state of Victoria to ban “conversion” practices. Some called it an attack on freedom of religion and speech. Critics say it is so broad in its definitions and the sanctions are so severe that it risks criminalizing people in their homes, workplaces and churches who genuinely seek to help those who ask for their support, as well as Christians and other people of faith.