NSW police have extended protest restrictions in parts of Sydney, citing the visit of Israeli president Isaac Herzog as a key factor.
NSW police commissioner Mal Lanyon on Tuesday confirmed the restriction would be extended for a fourth time, lasting another 14 days.
The declaration prevents protesters from marching in designated areas without risking arrest.
The restricted zone remains unchanged from when it was narrowed a fortnight ago ahead of the annual Invasion Day rally.
Lanyon said NSW remained less than two months from the worst terror attack in the state’s history and that public assemblies continued to pose a significant risk to community safety.
He said the visit by Isaac Herzog was “certainly a factor” in the decision.
Lanyon said police were balancing strong public opposition to the visit against the need to keep the community safe.
The powers were introduced after the Minns government rushed legislation through parliament following the Bondi terror attack last year.
The law allows police to restrict protests in designated areas for up to 90 days after a terror incident.
A constitutional challenge to the laws will be heard in the NSW Court of Appeal on 26 February.
The challenge has been brought by Blak Caucus, Palestine Action Group and Jews Against the Occupation ’48.
