Police Powers to Give Directions to Protesters at Places of Worship
Law Enforcement (Powers and Responsibilities) Amendment (Places of Worship) Bill 2025
1st House
2nd House
Law
Links to official parliament websites
Effects of this bill
If this bill passes, it means that:
Police officers can give directions to people at a protest, demonstration, or assembly near a place of worship.
The power applies if people are intentionally blocking access to the place of worship; it also applies if they are harassing, intimidating, or threatening people entering or leaving.
Police cannot use this power if the protest is at Parliament House or a member of Parliament's office.
The power does not apply to industrial action or disputes.
Directions can only be given to the specific people blocking access or harassing others.
Police cannot use this power if the assembly is an authorised public assembly being held according to its permit.