In a significant legal ruling that underscores the right to peaceful protest, a Sydney court has ordered the state of New South Wales to pay over £22,000 in legal costs to Hannah Thomas, a protester injured by police during a pro-Palestinian demonstration.
The incident, which occurred in October 2021 during a rally organised by the Palestine Action Group, has culminated in a powerful victory for the 29-year-old activist. The court found that the force used by a NSW police officer was 'excessive and unreasonable', directly causing Ms. Thomas's injuries.
A Clash During Peaceful Assembly
Court documents detail how the protest, while passionate, was largely peaceful until police moved in to disperse the crowd. Ms. Thomas was attempting to leave the area when an officer forcefully pushed her from behind, causing her to fall and sustain injuries to her wrist and back. The physical and psychological impact, she stated, was severe and long-lasting.
'I was not acting violently or threatening anyone. I was simply exercising my democratic right to protest,' Ms. Thomas said following the ruling. 'This judgment confirms that the police action was wrong and that protesters deserve to be kept safe.'
Legal Costs Awarded in Landmark Decision
The decision to award her full legal costs is seen as a strong endorsement of her case and a message to law enforcement regarding the appropriate management of public demonstrations. The magistrate criticised the police's account of events, noting inconsistencies in their evidence.
This case has resonated with civil liberties groups, who have hailed it as a crucial precedent. It highlights the delicate balance between maintaining public order and upholding the fundamental right to peaceful protest, a debate that is increasingly relevant in today's social climate.
The NSW Police Force has stated it is reviewing the court's findings.
