Sydney Protest Restrictions Extended for Third Time Following Bondi Attack
Restrictions on protest marches across Sydney streets, initially introduced in response to the Bondi terror attack, have been extended for a third consecutive time. A Public Assembly Restriction Declaration (PARD) was first implemented on Christmas Eve, temporarily limiting public assemblies in specific parts of the city.
Details of the Extended Restrictions
Under this latest extension, Sydney's eastern suburbs and most of the central business district will remain subject to the restrictions for the next fourteen days. Notably, Hyde Park is excluded from these measures. During this period, Form 1 applications for authorising public assemblies will not be accepted for the designated locations.
If a public assembly had been authorised prior to the declaration, that authorisation will now be deemed revoked. The restrictions apply specifically to the Eastern Suburbs Police Area Command and parts of Sydney's CBD, excluding Hyde Park.
Police Commissioner's Statement on Public Safety
NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon addressed the decision on Tuesday, emphasising that it aims to protect public safety while ensuring the community feels secure in the current climate. "The Bondi terror attack occurred less than two months ago, and the community remains tense," Lanyon stated.
He explained that the declaration seeks to balance community safety with the importance of free speech. "Overwhelmingly, we are pleased with the actions and behaviours of protesters, however, few continue to incite violence and cause fear and harm," Lanyon added. "We respect and support everyone's right to protest and we remain in discussions with protest organisers to ensure their safety and the safety of the community."
Impact on Planned Protests
The extension coincides with preparations by pro-Palestine activists for nationwide protests opposing the visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog. The Palestine Action Group Sydney, which had planned to rally at Town Hall before marching to NSW Parliament, has strongly condemned the extension.
"We will not be silenced," the group declared. Josh Lees from the group questioned, "How can [NSW Premier Chris] Minns and [Prime Minister Anthony] Albanese pass hate speech laws and talk about social cohesion while parading around the country someone found to have incited genocide?"
Lees further noted, "We have Palestinian Australians here who have had dozens of family members killed in the Gaza genocide, carried out by the state which President Herzog represents."
Future Review and Potential Extensions
The declaration will continue to be reviewed regularly and may be extended fortnightly for up to three months. This ongoing assessment allows authorities to adjust measures based on evolving safety concerns and community needs.
