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The New South Wales police commissioner has announced the cessation of protest restrictions imposed following the Bondi terror incident. These measures were initially enacted to prevent any further division and to ease tensions within the community after the attack.
Commissioner Mal Lanyon revealed that the restrictions on public gatherings, which had been a temporary response to the shooting, were officially lifted earlier today. He emphasized the importance of community awareness and mutual respect in the aftermath of such a significant event.
“Even though the public assembly restrictions have been lifted, I urge everyone to remain considerate of one another,” Lanyon stated. “This is a period for calm reflection, just two months after New South Wales faced its worst terror incident.”
The commissioner expressed a continued commitment to collaborating with event organizers to ensure that public demonstrations can be conducted safely and responsibly. “We are dedicated to safeguarding the right to free speech and peaceful assembly and will persist in working closely with those planning such activities,” he added.
“We want to work closely with those organisers to exercise free speech and assemble in public. We will continue to do that.
“We want to ensure public safety sits alongside public assembly and we will work closely with organisers to make sure that happens.”
The easing of restrictions comes just a week after a protest against the state visit by Israeli President Isaac Herzog was marred by chaotic, violent scenes outside Sydney Town Hall.
Today’s announcement means public assemblies are no longer restricted in any area of Sydney or the eastern suburbs.
The police watchdog is investigating the actions of officers during that event, after footage emerged of police appearing to punch some protesters and breaking up a group of worshippers mid-prayer.
Both Lanyon and NSW Premier Chris Minns have defended the actions of police during the protest.
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