Greens Welcome Court strike-down of WYD annoyance regulations

“The government pushed this ridiculous and excessive regulation through without allowing the parliament an opportunity to look at it,” said Ms Hale.

“It is quite appropriate therefore that it should have been struck-down by the Court.”

“The regulation was badly drafted and excessive and clearly sought to remove the basic right to free political speech. It gave far too much discretion to police to decide what constitutes behaviour that would breach the regulations. With fines of up to $5500 that level of discretion is unacceptable.”

“The striking down of the regulation demonstrates that the government is both incompetent and obsessed with expanding police powers at the expense of the rights of its citizens.”

“It is fortunate that the Federal Court has acted to uphold the basic rights of the citizens of NSW against the incompetence and excess of this state government,” said Ms Hale.

The Greens do not expect the strike down of the regulation to result in disruptions to World Youth day events.

“I am not aware that any individual or group was intending to try to disrupt events. The Court’s decision re-asserts the right of the citizens of NSW to express an alternative point of view and for that reason I welcome the Court’s decision,” concluded Ms Hale.

For further information:  Chris Holley 9230 3030 / 0437 779 546