Sydney, Jan 7: Australia’s most populous state, New South Wales, has extended emergency restrictions on protests and certain public assemblies for a further 14 days, citing continued public safety risks in the aftermath of the deadly Bondi Beach terrorist attack.
NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon said the decision followed a fresh review of the security situation, warning that large public gatherings in the current climate could heighten fear and strain community safety. Under the extension, demonstrations held without police approval will be deemed unauthorised.
Authorities stressed that the move is not aimed at curbing democratic expression. Commissioner Lanyon said the temporary restrictions are intended to provide reassurance and stability, allowing the public time to recover from recent traumatic events. Peaceful assemblies that meet legal requirements remain permitted.
The protest controls were introduced under emergency legislation passed shortly after the Bondi Beach attack, which killed 15 people during a Hanukkah celebration. The laws give police expanded powers to deny authorisation for protests following a declared terrorism incident and allow extensions of the ban in fortnightly intervals for up to three months.
Police have already enforced the measures, arresting three people earlier this month for participating in unauthorised protests linked to overseas political developments.
However, the extension has drawn criticism from civil liberties advocates, who argue the restrictions undermine fundamental democratic rights and set a troubling precedent for freedom of assembly and expression.
Officials maintain the measures are temporary and necessary, pointing to heightened global tensions and domestic security sensitivities as reasons for continued vigilance.
