Overview

• The NSW government enacted February legislation empowering officers to move protesters on if deemed too close to any place of worship.
• On June 19, the Palestine Action Group brought its case before Justice Anna Mitchelmore, asserting the laws infringe the constitutional right to assemble.
• Lawyers warned the undefined reach of “near” creates uncertainty that may chill peaceful demonstrations by leaving protesters and police unsure of enforceable boundaries.
• A rally outside the Supreme Court underscored critics’ concern that the reforms risk over-policing of faith-based and political gatherings.
• Premier Chris Minns defends the measures as essential to shield religious communities from harassment following a high-profile terrorism hoax.