A pro-Palestine march across the Sydney Harbour Bridge has been legally authorised following a New South Wales Supreme Court decision, with organisers expecting up to 50,000 participants. The bridge will be closed for approximately five hours from 11:30am on Sunday, with additional police deployed to monitor the event.
Justice Belinda Rigg ruled in favour of the march, stating it is motivated by the belief that 'the horror and urgency of the situation in Gaza demands an urgent and extraordinary response from the people of the world'. The Palestine Action Group, which organised the protest, hailed the decision as 'absolutely historic' and described it as an 'immense march for humanity'.
Earlier this week, police had rejected the application to facilitate the march, citing insufficient time for a traffic management plan and concerns over potential crowd crushes and disruptions. Following the court ruling, NSW Police Deputy Commissioner Peter McKenna said police were now in preparation mode, urging participants to follow directions and warning that any antisocial behaviour would be dealt with.
The court ruling grants protesters immunity from charges under the Summary Offences Act, including for obstructing traffic. However, police retain powers to address antisocial behaviour and other offences. State Police Minister Yasmin Catley acknowledged the government accepted the decision, warning of 'massive, massive disruption' but expressing confidence in police handling of the event.
