A pro-Palestine group in Sydney will proceed with a rally on Sunday after reaching an agreement with the police. Authorities had initially sought a court order to block protests on October 6 and 7, citing safety concerns. The Supreme Court of New South Wales dismissed the police petition after organisers agreed to alter the location and route of the Sunday protest and to refrain from displaying flags, portraits, or symbols of banned organisations.
The Palestine Action Group Sydney also cancelled their planned protest on October 7, the anniversary of Hamas’s deadliest assault in Israel, which triggered the Gaza conflict. Instead, they announced a vigil in Sydney’s city centre on October 7, though it remains unclear if this has been sanctioned by authorities. New South Wales police did not provide any immediate comment.
In a statement, the police assured they would collaborate with organisers on Sunday to ensure community safety. They warned of taking appropriate action against any criminal activities.
Pro-Palestine protesters will descend on Sydney’s CBD this weekend after a significant backdown from the police. Reporter @liamtapper has more.
WATCH SUNRISE FOR MORE | @7plus ☀️ pic.twitter.com/DvEIrnz1Ir
— Sunrise (@sunriseon7) October 3, 2024
Recent protests in Melbourne included participants displaying flags with Hezbollah symbols and photos of its leader, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, prompting an investigation. Hezbollah is classified as a terrorist organisation in Australia, which has seen a surge in antisemitic and Islamophobic incidents since the Israel-Gaza conflict began. Last year, Australia enacted laws banning the public display of terror group symbols.
What Other Media Are Saying
- SBS News reports that Sydney pro-Palestinian events on 6-7 October will proceed after organisers adjust plans, resolving police concerns over the route and permit issues.(read more)
- US News reports a pro-Palestine group in Sydney will proceed with a protest on October 6 after reaching an agreement with police, modifying the event to ensure community safety and avoid banned symbols.(read more)
- ABC News reports that pro-Palestinian protests in Sydney’s CBD, including a vigil, will go ahead after NSW Police withdrew their application to the Supreme Court due to safety concerns and community tensions.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Is the pro-Palestine protest in Sydney going ahead?
Yes, the protest will proceed on Sunday after an agreement with the police.
What did the pro-Palestine group agree to change for the protest?
They agreed to change the location and route and not display prohibited symbols.
Will there be a protest on October 7?
No, the group withdrew the request for October 7 and will hold a vigil instead.
What was the reason for the police’s initial court petition against the protests?
They cited safety concerns for the protesters and the wider community.
Are public displays of terror group symbols allowed in Australia?
No, Australia banned public displays of terror group symbols last year.
