Statement regarding protest action - Newcastle

Thursday, 21 November 2024 07:49:02 PM

The NSW Police Force is aware of a public assembly being conducted on, and in the vicinity of, the Port of Newcastle from 19 to 26 November 2024.

The NSWPF acknowledges the right to free speech and political demonstration and routinely facilitates public assemblies across the state, where it is safe to do so.

On Thursday 7 November 2024, the Supreme Court validated the NSW Police Force’s concerns about the safety of the assembly, by prohibiting both the water and land component of the public assembly.

The local council have permitted the public assembly to occur on their land at Foreshore Park. In response to the assembly, a high-visibility police operation is underway to ensure the safety of participants, the community, and users of the Port of Newcastle.

For their own safety and that of the other users of the Port, we request that people who still attend this event refrain from entering the harbour on kayaks or other vessels with the intention to obstruct other users of the Port, or engage in other forms of civil disobedience. We also encourage all participants to follow the directions of police.

The community is reminded that under NSW Legislation, the safe passage of vessels is protected. Unlawful activity may result in fines or imprisonment.

The NSW Police Force will adopt a zero-tolerance approach to actions which threaten public safety and the safe passage of vessels.

Again, the NSW Police Force recognises and supports the rights of individuals and groups to exercise their rights of free speech and peaceful assembly; however, the priority for NSW Police is always the safety of the wider community and there will be zero tolerance for illegal and dangerous behaviour.

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