Mal Lanyon said the public assembly restrictions, which were introduced in an attempt to quell any social division and tensions in the community following the shooting, were allowed to lapse this morning.
”Whilst the public assembly restriction declaration has been lifted today, I want the community to consider and respect others,” he said.
NSW has lifted restrictions on protests. (Getty)
“This is still the time for a calm. It is two months out from the worst terror incident we have had in New South Wales.
“We want to work closely with those organisers to exercise free speech and assemble in public. We will continue to do that.
“We want to ensure public safety sits alongside public assembly and we will work closely with organisers to make sure that happens.”
Mal Lanyon said the public assembly restrictions were allowed to lapse this morning. (Sam Mooy)
Under new laws passed on Christmas Eve, the police commissioner has the power to temporarily deem certain areas of the state as restricted from public assemblies, effectively banning protests in those areas.
However, today’s announcement means public assemblies are no longer restricted in any area of Sydney or the eastern suburbs, although police can still oppose the “form one” that must be submitted by organisers before a protest.
The easing of restrictions comes just a week after a protest against the state visit by Israeli President Isaac Herzog was marred by chaotic, violent scenes outside Sydney Town Hall.
Thousands of demonstrators in Sydney and Melbourne protested against Isaac Herzog’s visit to Australia. (AP)
Lanyon said now that Herzog has left the state, there was no reason to continue the declaration.
“I had significant concerns about the safety of the community and managing the visit of a head of state,” he said.
“I am satisfied that the conditions that led to the extension last time do not exist now.”
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