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The proposed plan won’t be permitted to proceed.
The suggested route would violate the rules outlined in the public assembly declaration.
The New South Wales government has classified Herzog’s visit as a major event, invoking legislation typically reserved for large gatherings. This law empowers police to limit access to specific areas or disperse individuals without providing a reason.
Anyone failing to adhere to lawful police orders could face penalties reaching up to $5,500 or could be barred from the designated major event zone.
However, this declaration does not prohibit protests or marches. Law enforcement remains informed about the planned demonstration opposing the controversial president’s visit.
“We are calling on police to allow our march to NSW Parliament, which they could easily do,” the group said in a statement earlier.
“But we are not seeking any confrontation, this will be a peaceful protest.”
When asked about the opposition to his visit, Herzog said demonstrations “undermine and delegitimise” Israel.
“It is important for me to say that I have come here in goodwill,” Herzog told media at Bondi Beach today.
Protesters in Melbourne have also planned a “week of action” against the Israeli President, who is due in the Victorian capital on Thursday.
Organisers are expecting as many as 10,000 activists to descend on Flinders Street Station at 5.30pm today to protest Herzog’s Australian visit.
“We are horrified, we are appalled, and we are taking our action to the streets,” rally organiser Omar Hassan said.
“His visit as a head of state is not a political act, not a random mourner for Bondi, which we also mourn, he is a political representative of a state that has committed genocide according to the UN High Commission.
“So he is being treated as a political leader with the disrespect actually and the fury he deserves.”
The intersection of Flinders and Swanston Streets will be blocked off during the evening commute as protesters march towards the State Library of Victoria.
Victoria Police has confirmed it will have a “highly visible presence” through the CBD to ensure the protest remains peaceful.
“Victoria Police respects the right for people to protest lawfully, however we expect that they do so peacefully without impacting the broader community,” a spokesperson said.
“Police will be prepared to respond to any issues if needed.”
Today’s Melbourne march is expected to be followed by further protests in the coming days.