The Victorian government has amended its controversial anti-protest laws following widespread criticism, with the changes now giving police broader powers to move on protesters. The amended Summary Offences Act passed the upper house of parliament on Tuesday night, despite outcry from the public gallery that led to four people being removed and charged.
The new legislation allows police to act against protesters blocking access to buildings, obstructing people or traffic, or where violence is anticipated. Courts can issue exclusion orders preventing repeat offenders from entering specific public spaces for up to 12 months, with a maximum penalty of two years' imprisonment for breaches.
Melbourne's Lord Mayor Robert Doyle welcomed the changes, suggesting they could help address long-standing issues with anti-abortion protesters outside a fertility control clinic. However, critics argue the laws are an attempt to stifle dissent on issues such as the anti-Tecoma McDonald's campaign and industrial disputes.
The Labor Party and Greens opposed the bill, with Greens MLC Sue Pennicuik calling it 'an absolute assault on the democratic right of Victorians to protest'. Australian Human Rights Commissioner Tim Wilson also described the laws as 'excessive'. The government has not yet responded to the backlash.
