Full Breakdown
NSW Police Lift Protest Restrictions Following Herzog's Visit
2/17/2026, 8:08:10 AM
End of Restrictions on Public Assemblies
The New South Wales (NSW) Police Commissioner, Mal Lanyon, has announced the lifting of restrictions on public protests in Sydney, which had been in place during the visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog. These restrictions, enacted under new laws following the Bondi terror attack, allowed police to designate certain areas as off-limits for public assemblies for up to 90 days. The restrictions were initially implemented to ensure public safety during Herzog's visit, which concluded last week.
Lanyon stated that with Herzog's departure, the conditions justifying the restrictions no longer exist. He emphasized the need for a return to normalcy and expressed a willingness to work with protest organizers to facilitate lawful demonstrations. The lifting of these restrictions means that protest organizers can now use the Form 1 system to notify police of planned marches without the risk of arrest in the Sydney Central Business District (CBD) and eastern suburbs.
Background on the Restrictions
The controversial powers granted to police were introduced in response to the December 14 Bondi terror attack, allowing for the temporary restriction of public assemblies in designated areas. These laws have faced criticism from civil liberties groups, who argue they infringe on the democratic right to protest. The Palestine Action Group (PAG) had previously challenged the designation of Herzog's visit as a "major event," arguing it was a means to suppress dissent.
Police Actions and Allegations of Misconduct
The recent protests against Herzog's visit were marked by violent clashes between police and demonstrators, leading to allegations of excessive force, including the use of pepper spray and other crowd control measures. Eyewitness accounts reported instances of police brutality, with some protesters suffering injuries. The Law Enforcement Conduct Commission has announced an independent inquiry into police actions during these protests, following numerous complaints regarding officer conduct.
Lanyon defended the police's actions, stating that they were necessary to maintain order and ensure the safety of both the head of state and the community. However, critics, including human rights organizations, have called for a review of police tactics, particularly the use of pepper spray and long-range acoustic devices (LRADs), which have been described as potentially harmful.
Official Statements and Responses
Lanyon remarked, "I am satisfied that the conditions that led to the extension last time do not exist now," indicating a shift towards normalizing public assemblies. Premier Chris Minns has also supported police actions, asserting that the protests created an "impossible situation."
Conversely, PAG is considering appealing the decision regarding the major event declaration, and legal representatives are pursuing claims of police misconduct, including a case involving a 69-year-old woman who sustained serious injuries during the protests.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
While police have maintained that their actions were justified due to safety concerns, critics argue that the use of force was excessive and disproportionate. The ongoing inquiry by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission may provide further clarity on these incidents and the appropriateness of police responses during protests.
What's Next
As the inquiry into police conduct unfolds, the community and advocacy groups are calling for a reassessment of protest policing practices in NSW. The outcome of these investigations may influence future regulations surrounding public assemblies and police engagement with demonstrators.
