“Victory for Free Speech: NSW Court Strikes Down ‘Draconian’ Anti-Protest Laws”
April 16, 2026
Huge win for democracy!
In a historic ruling handed down today, Thursday, April 16, 2026, the NSW Court of Appeal has struck down the state’s controversial anti-protest laws, ruling them unconstitutional. The laws, known as the Public Assembly Restriction Declarations (PARD), were rushed through by the Minns Labor Government following the Bondi terror attacks in late 2025.
Chief Justice Andrew Bell, along with Justices Julie Ward and Stephen Free, delivered a unanimous judgment, declaring the PARD scheme an impermissible burden on the implied constitutional right to freedom of political communication.
The ruling is a direct result of a legal challenge led by the Palestine Action Group, Blak Caucus, and Jews Against the Occupation ‘48. Josh Lees, who spearheads the Palestine Action Group, hailed the decision as a resounding win for everyone who cares about democracy.
No more using these powers to harass peaceful marchers.
The message is loud and clear: You can’t ban the truth.
Source: nswcouncilforcivilliberties
#NSW #FreeSpeech #Victory #fyp #freepalestine
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