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The ability for workers to assemble in public and carry out a peaceful protest – without fear of violence or repression – is a fundamental right in Australia.  

It’s a right that has also faced unprecedented pressure in recent months, with various state and territory governments passing legislation to restrict protests following the Bondi Beach terrorist attack. 

In light of these restrictions, the FSU recently signed on to endorse the Right to Protest Declaration, which was produced by the Human Rights Law Centre. 

Read more about the declaration and sign the petition here. 

As a union that has existed for more than 100 years, the FSU has a long and proud history of being part of protests that have led to significant reforms – whether it be fairer pay, safer workplaces, or better work life balance.  

FSU National Executive member and NAB employee Meg Nair said the right to protest was needed now more than ever. 

“In the midst of relentless turmoil – whether it’s job losses and offshoring, workload intensification, or AI morphing the fabric of what society looks like with little to no guardrails – now more than ever we need to voice our well-founded fears and seek comfort in our shared experiences,” Meg said. 

“FSU members have long stood side by side across an incredible spectrum of issues that call for respect and recognition – for social justice, for bodily autonomy, for a seat at the table, for the right to live safely, and for the right to love without judgement or interference.  

“The right to protest is the lifeblood of this vibrant country, which is why the FSU National Executive unanimously endorsed this declaration.” 

A right we must protect 

The declaration comes as several Australian states and territories have sought to impose harsher penalties, broaden police powers, or criminalise peaceful civil disobedience, which limits the ability of workers and communities to assemble and advocate for justice. 

In a win for social justice, the NSW Court of Appeal has since struck down the state government’s anti-protest laws, ruling them unconstitutional.  

The government’s rushed laws demonstrate just how fragile our rights are to peacefully protest, and the FSU calls on all governments to review and repeal laws that unjustly restrict this right.  

We also call on governments to enact protections consistent with Australia’s international human rights obligations, and to ensure workers and their unions can exercise their rights to protest and organise safely and effectively.