Human rights groups are urging the Victorian government to reject pressure to adopt New South Wales’ protest permit system following a series of antisemitic incidents over the weekend. The group’s call comes after Premier Jacinta Allan announced an anti-hate taskforce in response to a fire at a Melbourne synagogue, vandalism at an Israeli restaurant, and other incidents. The taskforce aims to consider enhancing police powers to curb extreme and violent protests. The Victorian government is also contemplating broad legislative changes, including a ban on protests near places of worship and a prohibition on face masks and balaclavas, in the wake of an arson attack on an ultra-orthodox Adass synagogue in Melbourne late last year.
Critics argue that the NSW permit system is overly restrictive and anti-democratic. Leigh McRae, a spokesperson for the Human Rights Law Centre, said in a statement, “Implementing such a system in Victoria would silence voices and exacerbate tensions, rather than fostering a safer community.” However, proponents like Jeremy Leibler, the president of the Zionist Federation of Australia, argue that a robust permit regime is necessary to maintain public safety and cohesion.
The debate reflects a broader concern about balancing civil liberties with security amid rising tensions. As the Victorian government contemplates its next steps, discussions highlight the need to address hate crimes without infringing on the right to peaceful protest.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/jul/07/human-rights-groups-urge-victoria-not-to-adopt-nsw-protest-permit-system-in-response-to-alleged-antisemitic-attacks
