NSW Supreme Court Allows Pro-Palestinian Rally on Sydney Harbour Bridge

The New South Wales Supreme Court has authorized a pro-Palestinian rally on the Sydney Harbour Bridge despite police and government concerns about public safety and disruption. Justice Belinda Rigg ruled that the potential disruption inherent in peaceful protests does not justify banning the demonstration, which is expected to attract thousands of participants. The Palestine Action Group, which organized the march to highlight the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, stated it would proceed regardless of the court's decision and emphasized the symbolic importance of the bridge protest. Police had opposed the rally due to insufficient notice for planning a multi-agency response and fears of crowd crush, but the court granted legal protections to protesters from certain charges like obstructing traffic while maintaining police powers against anti-social behavior. Public support for stronger government action on Gaza is reflected in polling showing over 60% of Australians believe current measures are inadequate. The protest has also drawn backing from a wide range of groups including Amnesty International, trade unions, religious organizations, and public figures, underscoring broad community engagement on the issue.