New roads and crimes protest regulations now in place

Illegal protesters will now face the full force of the Roads and Crimes Legislation Amendment Act 2022 after new regulations were made today.
 
Attorney General Mark Speakman said the regulations have now been signed off by the Governor.
 
“Following lengthy sittings, the recall of Parliament on an additional Friday and attempts by the Greens and Labor to render the Bill ineffective, the Government moved decisively and quickly to ensure these disruptive protestors face harsher penalties,” Mr Speakman said.
 
“The new regulations specify major roads, bridges, tunnels and other major infrastructure facilities. Protesters who disrupt these locations will face a fine of up to $22,000 and/or up to 2 years in jail.”
 
Minister for Metropolitan Roads Natalie Ward said this is an important step to deter any further damaging actions by reckless and illegal protesters.
 
“I make no apologies for vigorously pursuing this legislation,” Mrs Ward said.
 
“It was essential for the NSW Government to put into place laws to stop this kind of extreme and selfish activity we have seen over the past few weeks by a small group of protesters hell bent on wreaking havoc
 
“We can't have people’s lives and livelihoods put at risk by the actions of a few.

“I now call on Labor and the Greens not to attempt to try to stop this law by moving a disallowance motion, which would give protesters free rein and cause further chaos.”