The New South Wales government's plan to restrict protests following the Bondi beach terrorist attack has been condemned by two Jewish groups that support the Palestine movement, as well as civil liberty campaigners. They warn against allowing culture wars to distract from a unified response to antisemitism.
Premier Chris Minns announced on Wednesday that Labor would move to effectively ban protests when a 'terrorism designation' is in place, which grants police expanded special powers. The change would prevent people from lodging a form 1 to hold an authorised protest during such designations, meaning protesters could be charged under the Summary Offences Act if they marched and blocked traffic.
Max Kaiser, executive officer of the Jewish Council of Australia, expressed concern that the proposed change was directed at the pro-Palestine movement. He noted that his group had been inundated with support from Palestinian allies appalled by the antisemitic attack. Jesse McNicoll of Jewish Voices of Inner Sydney called it 'outrageous' that the pain of his community could be used to shut down a movement opposing genocide.
The attack, in which 15 people were killed at a Hanukah festival, was allegedly carried out by 24-year-old Naveed Akram and his father, who were inspired by Isis. Police and Asio had some prior knowledge of Naveed, but an investigation in 2019 found no indication of an ongoing threat. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said hatred starts with language and can escalate, referencing the Opera House demonstration as a crossed line.
Minns defended his plan, stating that protests in Sydney would be terrible for the community and would rip it apart. He said he was not aware of any planned protests, while organisers confirmed no demonstrations were currently scheduled.
