NSW Police Announce End to Public Assembly Restrictions
In a significant development, restrictions on public assembly and protests in New South Wales have been officially lifted. The temporary measures, which were put in place following the Bondi terror attack, have now lapsed and will not be extended, as confirmed by the NSW police commissioner.
Commissioner's Powers and Announcement
Commissioner Mal Lanyon was granted authority under laws passed by the NSW Government on December 24 to temporarily designate public areas as "restricted" from assemblies. This power has now been revoked, with Tuesday's announcement marking the end of any such restrictions across Sydney and the Eastern Suburbs.
"Whilst the public assembly restriction declaration has been lifted today, can I say I want the community to consider and respect others," Lanyon stated during a press conference on Tuesday. "This is still the time for calm. It is two months out from the worst terror incident we have had in New South Wales."
He emphasized the importance of collaboration, adding, "We want to work closely with those organisers to exercise free speech and assemble in public. We will continue to do that."
New Requirements for Assembly Organisers
With the lifting of restrictions, police have outlined updated guidelines for public assemblies. From today, organisers seeking protection under the Summary Offences Act must serve notice to the Commissioner at least seven days prior to the event. This change aims to ensure orderly conduct while upholding the right to protest.
Investigation into Recent Protest Actions
The announcement coincides with news that the police watchdog, the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC), has launched an investigation into police actions during a recent protest. The protest, held against the visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog to Sydney last week, has prompted "a significant number of complaints" regarding the operation.
The LECC announced on Friday that it will undertake a thorough investigation into these complaints, highlighting ongoing scrutiny of law enforcement practices in the context of public demonstrations.
As the situation evolves, further updates are expected regarding both the investigation and the implementation of the new assembly guidelines.
