In response to heightened security concerns following last month’s terror incident at Bondi Beach, restrictions on public gatherings in New South Wales have been prolonged.
Following the swift enactment of new legislation, Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon was granted authority to impose temporary bans on protests in public spaces as of December 24.
Upon reviewing the initial 14-day restriction, Commissioner Lanyon has opted to extend it further until January 20, citing continued anxiety within the community.
Meanwhile, a coalition of protest groups is organizing a demonstration titled “Genocide is a Crime, Protest is Not,” set to take place in Sydney on January 16, despite the recent extension.
Lanyon noted that he will evaluate the conduct at any unauthorized demonstrations and gauge public sentiment when the current 14-day period concludes to decide on the possibility of another extension past January 20.
“We will take all of these factors into account. It is too early to speculate on the situation beyond these 14 days,” he stated.
“I’m constantly looking at the community and working very closely with the community to understand the fear and the level of comfort within the community.
“My job is to ensure public safety.”
Police Minister Yasmin Catley said police had the full support of the government.
“The NSW government unequivocally supports the commissioner’s decision and remains committed to ensuring NSW Police have the powers, resources and backing they need to keep the community safe.”
The new powers have been criticised by demonstrators and civil rights groups, who argue the rules impede the democratic right to protest.
The Stop the War on Palestine group has condemned Lanyon’s decision today to extend the declaration.
“It is blatantly obvious that the ban has nothing to do with ‘social cohesion’ and everything to do with removing democratic rights to oppose government policy and genocide,” the group said in a statement.
