The Victorian Opposition has announced a hardline policy proposal that would significantly reshape the state’s approach to public protests.
Under the Coalition’s plan, repeat protest offenders who fail to comply with move-on orders could face up to two years in prison, while a new police-controlled protest registration system would be introduced if the party wins the 2026 state election.
Opposition Leader Brad Battin said Victorians are “fed up” with public chaos caused by disruptive protests, including climate activism and recent anti-Semitic actions linked to pro-Palestinian demonstrations.
Under the new system, protest organizers would be required to register with Victoria Police, not local councils. Registered protests would be afforded legal protections, but unregistered events could lead to on-the-spot arrests for breaching strengthened move-on laws.
“Disruptive or disorderly protesters who ignore police directives to move on will face up to two years jail,” said Opposition police spokesman David Southwick.
This proposal follows a recent escalation in tensions, including an incident in which pro-Palestinian activists stormed the Miznon Israeli restaurant in Melbourne, frightening diners while chanting hostile slogans. Additionally, a synagogue was set on fire the same night.
In response, the Allan government has launched a new anti-hate task force and is consulting on further legislation to ban face coverings, glue, and chains during protests.
Acting Premier Ben Carroll acknowledged the increasing violence, stating, “We won’t stand for a fringe element intent on destruction.”
As of now, over 950 Middle East-related protests have occurred in Victoria since October 7, 2023, with 326 anti-Semitic incidents reported.
