Court Strikes Down NSW Emergency Protest Bans

0:00A New South Wales Court just struck down those emergency protest fans rode out after the Bondi Beach massacre, saying they violated constitutional rights. Rush through Parliament in December, the laws let the police commissioner block rally permits across key Sydney spots for up to three months. Following a terror attack, leaving anyone marching at risk of arrest for blocking traffic or footpaths, the trigger was that horrific mid-December shooting at Ahonika event on Bondi Beach, where two gunmen killed 15 people. Right after, cops slapped on the declaration, plus a major events order that let them clear areas whenever they saw fit. Activists from groups like Palestine Action Group and Black Caucus weren't having it. They sued, arguing the rules crush free speech and assembly. During the crackdown, dozens got pepper sprayed, beaten, or hauled off, sparking outrage over heavy-handed policing amid the chaos. In a court of appeal ruling Thursday, Chief Justice Andrew Bell called the measures

1:00an impermissible burden on those core freedoms, handing a big win to the challengers. State leaders still defend the laws as vital for keeping the peace, admitting they step on principles but insisting no regrets and tough times. Like, be ah. I'm Cory with the story that your Sydney News today update, AI-powered and always on.