Civil rights groups raise concerns over new fast-tracked gun laws
On Monday, the New South Wales (NSW) parliament reconvened to discuss legislation that would limit gun ownership, enhance police powers at protests, and ban the phrase “globalise the intifada” at public gatherings. NSW Premier Chris Minns acknowledged that some might view the measures as excessive but said they were necessary to ensure public safety.
Critics argue that the reforms unfairly target law-abiding gun owners and restrict democratic rights. Civil libertarians contend that curbing protest activities infringes on freedoms of assembly and expression. Minns defended the ban on the “intifada” phrase, saying its use in Australia promotes disunity and could incite violence, even if its historical context originates from Palestinian resistance to Israeli occupation.
The new laws would also allow police to restrict demonstrations at religious sites and impose stricter penalties for breaches. Civil liberties groups have warned that these restrictions conflict with the state supreme court’s earlier ruling protecting political expression near places of worship.
Police will gain authority to remove face coverings from protesters suspected of committing offenses, including minor ones, whereas previously such powers applied only in cases of arrest or serious crimes.
Gun reform measures include limiting licence holders to four firearms, with exceptions for farmers and sport shooters who may possess up to ten. Licenses will now require renewal every two years instead of five, and authorities will review the types of firearms accessible to most owners. One of the Bondi attackers, Sajid Akram, held six registered firearms.
Pro-gun advocates argue the new restrictions punish responsible license holders and fail to address the root causes of violence, such as social division and hate. Conversely, victims’ families and safety campaigners have welcomed the changes as essential to closing gaps in Australia’s gun laws and enhancing community protection.
Authorities also plan to crack down on hate speech and symbols, with police empowered to ban protests for up to three months following terrorist incidents. While some groups view these measures as draconian and a threat to freedom of speech, Jewish community leaders have supported the restrictions, emphasizing that violent slogans and extremist symbols have no place in public demonstrations.
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