| AFIC Welcomes NSW Court Ruling Upholding the Right to Protest |
** “This is a powerful affirmation of our democratic rights. The right to protest, to speak out against injustice,...” Dr Rateb Jneid, President of AFIC, stated:
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AFIC Welcomes NSW Court Ruling Upholding the Right to Protest
16/10/2025
(See translation in Arabic section)
Sydney-Middle East Times Int'l: The Australian Federation of Islamic Councils (AFIC) welcomes today’s landmark decision by the NSW Supreme Court which ruled the state’s anti-protest laws unconstitutional. This is a significant victory for democratic rights and civil liberties in Australia.
The laws, which were introduced in 2022 and used disproportionately against pro-Palestine protesters, have been struck down following a legal challenge by the Palestine Action Group, with the court finding them to be inconsistent with the implied freedom of political communication in the Australian Constitution.
Dr Rateb Jneid, President of AFIC, stated:
This is a powerful affirmation of our democratic rights. The right to protest, to speak out against injustice, and to demand accountability from governments are fundamental freedoms that must be protected. Especially over the past two years, we have seen peaceful protesters targeted and demonised simply for opposing the genocide of the Palestinian people. Today’s ruling restores faith in the legal system and sends a clear message that governments must not silence voices of conscience.
AFIC congratulates the Palestine Action Group and all those involved in the legal challenge for their courage and commitment. The court’s decision reinforces that the average Australian must be free to express themselves peacefully, particularly when that expression is in defence of human rights, justice, and dignity for oppressed people globally.
We now call on all governments, state and federal, to review and repeal any legislation that infringes upon civil liberties and the right to protest. Attempts to criminalise dissent undermine the very foundations of a free and fair society.
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AFIC, established in 1964, stands as the Peak Muslim Organisation in Australia, with 170 members including 9 State and Territory Councils. It has a rich history of pioneering numerous community services and actively advocating for the rights and representation of the Muslim community.
Authorised:
Dr Rateb Jneid, President |
