Story perspectives

Activists Challenge Warrantless Search Powers Ahead of Rally

12/8/2025

Summary

Story summary

Benny Zable, an 80-year-old environmental activist, and Tarneen Onus Browne, a rally organizer, challenge a police declaration authorizing six months of warrantless searches in designated areas, filed by the Human Rights Law Centre.
The Victorian government amended the Control of Weapons Act to extend these search powers, acknowledging potential human rights conflicts.
Onus Browne warns the powers could increase harassment during the Invasion Day rally on January 26.

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Story summary

Benny Zable, an 80-year-old environmental activist, and Tarneen Onus Browne, a rally organizer, challenge a police declaration authorizing six months of warrantless searches in designated areas, filed by the Human Rights Law Centre.
The Victorian government amended the Control of Weapons Act to extend these search powers, acknowledging potential human rights conflicts.
Onus Browne warns the powers could increase harassment during the Invasion Day rally on January 26.