Pro-Palestinian Protesters Plan First March Across Sydney Harbour Bridge Amid Rising Tensions
For the first time in nearly two years of ongoing demonstrations, pro-Palestinian protesters are preparing to march across the Sydney Harbour Bridge, potentially clashing with police forces.
The Palestine Action Group announced on Sunday that it had submitted a Form 1 to NSW Police, notifying them of the upcoming “March for Humanity” scheduled for 1 p.m. on August 3.
The group urged NSW authorities to support and facilitate the event, citing the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, including widespread starvation among civilians, as the march’s impetus.
“As Australia’s most iconic landmark, a large-scale march across the Harbour Bridge will deliver a powerful global message,” the group stated. That message, they added, is directed at “Gaza, Israel, and our own government, affirming our commitment to stand up for humanity.”
The demonstration may encounter resistance, as seen in previous instances. Former NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb had attempted to block a prior pro-Palestinian event via the Supreme Court. That vigil, marking one year since the October 7 attacks, was eventually permitted after a court decision and last-minute talks.
In NSW, submitting a Form 1 grants protestors legal protection against charges like unlawful assembly, although police retain the right to challenge such events in court.
NSW Police confirmed awareness of the planned protest in Sydney’s CBD, stating: “Officers from Sydney City Police Area Command have received a Form 1 from organisers and are engaging with relevant stakeholders.”
While the Harbour Bridge is a crucial traffic route, it has been temporarily closed in the past for events such as film shoots and public demonstrations. Notably, it was closed in 2023 for a World Pride Month march attended by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and in 2000 for the Walk For Reconciliation, which drew 250,000 people.
Organisers argue that a temporary closure is justified for such a critical cause: “It can certainly be closed to stop a genocide.”
Protesters plan to gather at Lang Park near Wynyard Station at 1 p.m. before proceeding to the bridge. This demonstration is part of a nearly two-year campaign following Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel and the subsequent conflict in Gaza.
Last week, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese criticized Israel for “clearly” violating international law, though he stopped short of joining France in recognizing Palestinian statehood.
NSW Police have been contacted for further comment.
