Generally - To identify the inequalities in the laws, legal system, administrative practices and society as a whole that affect our clients and disadvantaged people generally. To work for social and legal change to remove those defects and inequalities and enhance respect for human rights.
To defend rights of free speech and freedom of assembly.
Provide representation to Sydney University students arrested protesting
Challenge unjust use of police powers, advocate for changes to legislation or police practices
Protesters “known to police”, who were at the time facing criminal charges, subject to search warrants or otherwise under investigation, suspicion or “monitoring” in NSW and other states.
Protesters who were planning to actively participate in protest marches.
Protest organisers re: operation of Summary Offences Act 1988 and negotiating with NSW Police for “Authorised Public Assemblies”
Research & Networking
(i) Legislation
Analysis of the APEC Act (with the assistance of Pro Bono Counsel)
Identification of the impact of legislation on protesters and other client groups eg vulnerable persons
Observation of Police “attitude” in the conduct of criminal matters
Informal discussions with police
Recording incidents reported by client groups involving NSW & Federal Police
Monitoring Police & government media campaign – discouraging citizens from participating in protests aimed to
“Silence dissent” by referring to protesters as potential terrorists threats
Participation in meetings with relevant stakeholders including the Police, the Dept of Attorney General, Legal Aid Commission of NSW, the NSW Ombudsman, Members of Parliament and others to ensure that issues of process and fairness to both those actively engaged in activities and those who might be caught up (eg homeless persons) were identified and addressed.
(iii) Impact on Community
Identifying community concerns regarding the proposed Police operation
Identifying ways to raise awareness in the community of the impact of police & security operation
(iv) Liaising with Human Rights Monitors and Protest Organisers
(v) Raising awareness amongst other lawyers CLCs
Community Legal Education
Content
Information to empower citizens to make informed choices about their participation in
civil society including public debate and protest marches.-
Operation of existing criminal laws & criminal justice system
