Entire NSW Labor left calls for controversial anti-protest laws to be scrapped ahead of party conference
News Source
β’Fri, 03 Jul 2026 14:53:58 GMT
π° What Happened
Fifty-six NSW Labor branches have submitted motions calling for anti-protest laws to be scrapped. The entire left faction of the party backs a motion to repeal two of these laws. This is happening ahead of the NSW Labor state conference, the last one before the March election.
Some party members are worried they won't get to debate the protest laws properly. The issue was scheduled second last on the agenda. Labor member Asrah Sobh called it an attempt to 'shut down branch members' voices'. Other hot topics at the conference include gambling reform, Aukus submarines, and Palestine.
π The Backstory
The NSW government introduced anti-protest laws after climate activists caused disruptions. Critics say the laws are too harsh and limit the right to peaceful protest. Civil liberties groups have been fighting against them. The laws have divided the Labor party between its left and right wings.
The state conference is important because it helps shape party policy. With an election coming in March, what happens at this conference could influence Labor's campaign. The right to protest is a big issue for many voters. Some Labor members feel the party is moving away from its traditional values on civil liberties.
π― Why It Matters
Your right to protest and speak up about issues you care about is at stake. How political parties handle internal disagreements affects the policies they bring to elections.
Fifty-six NSW Labor branches have submitted motions calling for anti-protest laws to be scrapped. The entire left faction of the party backs a motion to repeal two of these laws. This is happening ahead of the NSW Labor state conference, the last one before the March election.
Some party members are worried they won't get to debate the protest laws properly. The issue was scheduled second last on the agenda. Labor member Asrah Sobh called it an attempt to 'shut down branch members' voices'. Other hot topics at the conference include gambling reform, Aukus submarines, and Palestine.
The NSW government introduced anti-protest laws after climate activists caused disruptions. Critics say the laws are too harsh and limit the right to peaceful protest. Civil liberties groups have been fighting against them. The laws have divided the Labor party between its left and right wings.
The state conference is important because it helps shape party policy. With an election coming in March, what happens at this conference could influence Labor's campaign. The right to protest is a big issue for many voters. Some Labor members feel the party is moving away from its traditional values on civil liberties.
Your right to protest and speak up about issues you care about is at stake. How political parties handle internal disagreements affects the policies they bring to elections.