4 July, 2025
legal-action-considered-over-alleged-police-force-at-sydney-protest

Lawyers are examining potential legal action against New South Wales police following allegations of excessive force during a pro-Palestine protest in Sydney. The incident has left former Greens candidate Hannah Thomas facing the possibility of losing sight in her right eye. The protest, held in Belmore and attended by approximately 60 people, resulted in Thomas’s arrest and subsequent hospitalization for surgery.

O’Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors announced on Monday that they are representing several individuals involved in the protest, including Thomas. The firm is currently “investigating the viability of civil proceedings” against the police. Principal solicitor Peter O’Brien expressed grave concerns over the incident, stating, “What happened to Thomas is deeply concerning.”

Background of the Incident

Thomas, aged 35, who previously ran against the prime minister in the federal election, was among five individuals arrested and charged during the protest. The charges included resisting police and failing to comply with a direction to disperse. The protest took place outside a business accused of supplying services to Israel’s defense sector.

According to O’Brien, recent legislative changes expanding police powers to disperse protests might have emboldened officers to act without proper regard for the right to protest. “The government was warned that these changes could lead to serious confrontations,” he noted.

Police Response and Investigation

Assistant Police Commissioner Brett McFadden denied any misconduct by officers, citing body-worn-camera footage as evidence. However, he announced a critical incident investigation into Thomas’s arrest, acknowledging the seriousness of her injuries. This investigation will be overseen by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission.

“Hannah Thomas has sustained a serious and potentially life-altering injury. She now finds herself not only recovering in hospital but also facing charges for allegedly resisting police.” – Peter O’Brien, Principal Solicitor

Legal and Political Ramifications

The protest and subsequent arrests have sparked a broader debate about the new laws in New South Wales aimed at curbing antisemitism, which expand police powers near places of worship. Although the protest was not directly targeting a place of worship, the legislation’s vague definition of proximity has been criticized.

A constitutional challenge against these laws is currently underway, initiated by the Palestine Action Group. The laws were prompted by a previous protest outside a synagogue, which has fueled ongoing controversy.

Calls for Legislative Review

The reforms have faced significant opposition, including from within the Labor party. NSW Greens spokesperson for justice, Sue Higginson, has called for the charges against Thomas and others to be dropped, arguing that the laws suppress legitimate political expression. Higginson also urged for the repeal of the anti-protest laws, describing them as “draconian.”

Despite these calls, Premier Chris Minns stated that the police did not rely on the controversial legislation during the Belmore protest, instead using existing powers. However, Higginson countered this, pointing out police documents that referenced a place of worship in the context of the arrests.

Implications and Future Developments

The situation highlights the ongoing tension between law enforcement and civil liberties in the context of protests. The outcome of the critical incident investigation and potential legal actions could set significant precedents for future protests and police conduct in New South Wales.

As the legal and political discussions continue, the case of Hannah Thomas remains a focal point in the debate over protest rights and police powers. Observers and stakeholders await further developments, which could influence both public policy and individual rights in the region.