A court has stopped a planned protest during peak hour that aimed to block Brisbane’s Story Bridge, while the Prime Minister stated that maintaining the bridge is not the federal government’s duty.
Protesters had intended to shut down all six lanes from 8 a.m. on Friday, demanding that Brisbane City Council reserve one lane for pedestrians and cyclists.
Magistrate Ross Mack ruled that the protest would jeopardize public safety, citing potential disruptions to commuters and emergency services. Acting Senior Sergeant Donna Kay, representing Queensland Police, told the court that the demonstration would delay access to healthcare and interfere with 115 scheduled bus routes. She said that although the right to protest is recognized, it is outweighed by the public’s right to go about their daily activities without disruption.
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner supported the court’s decision, calling it a “common sense outcome.”
Since March, the Story Bridge footpaths have been closed due to structural issues including rust and “concrete cancer.” Schrinner said repairs are underway, and a long-term replacement is planned. He noted that while a dedicated lane for non-vehicle traffic was considered, it would require shutting down two lanes, which isn’t viable.
Protest organizer Kathryn Good expressed disappointment but vowed to continue advocating for better infrastructure for active transport.
Earlier, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told ABC Radio Brisbane that it’s not the Commonwealth’s role to finance every local infrastructure project. His comments followed reports that the council might introduce a toll to fund major repairs if federal support is not provided.
An independent review found the 85-year-old bridge would be unfit for traffic in 20 years without a full overhaul, which would cost more than the council can manage alone. The committee suggested potential funding sources such as a toll, contributions from all levels of government, corporate sponsorship, or a new rates levy.
Albanese criticized the council for allowing the bridge’s condition to deteriorate and emphasized the need for ongoing maintenance to avoid large repair bills. He clarified that Story Bridge is a local responsibility and should be monitored accordingly.
Mayor Schrinner disagreed, saying the bridge is nationally significant, comparable to the Sydney Harbour Bridge. He argued that maintenance and restoration are separate issues and confirmed that the council has been actively maintaining the bridge while preparing for a long-term upgrade.
Although the council hasn’t formally requested funding yet, Schrinner said they will soon seek federal financial support. He also pointed out that the Story Bridge handles more traffic than other bridges which have already received federal funding, such as the Centenary Bridge.
The federal government has so far committed $2.25 million toward a $4.5 million business case for the bridge’s restoration, which could span up to 15 years. The bridge has been toll-free since 1947, when the council assumed control.
