The NSW Supreme Court has dismissed a legal challenge by pro-Palestine activists, clearing the way for police to wield sweeping "major event" powers during Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s controversial visit to Australia.

In a ruling that has ignited fierce debate over the balance between national security and civil liberties, the court sided with the Minns government, validating the activation of special powers usually reserved for major sporting events like the World Cup. The decision effectively transforms parts of the Sydney CBD and eastern suburbs into high-security zones where police authority is significantly expanded, a move critics describe as an overreach designed to stifle legitimate political dissent.

The "Major Event" Precedent

The activation of the Major Events Act grants New South Wales police extraordinary discretion. For the duration of Herzog’s visit, officers can search members of the public without reasonable suspicion, issue move-on orders to prevent "annoyance or inconvenience," and lock down specific precincts. Non-compliance carries steep penalties, with fines escalating up to KES 480,000 ($5,500 AUD).

• The Ruling: Justice Robertson Wright dismissed the argument that the powers were being used for an "improper purpose," accepting the state's submission that they were necessary for public safety.
• The Protest: Despite the legal setback, the Palestine Action Group has vowed to proceed with a mass rally, marching from Sydney Town Hall to the state parliament, testing the police's resolve.

Political Fallout

NSW Premier Chris Minns has called for calm, stating that while he respects the right to protest, the safety of the visiting head of state is paramount. "We cannot allow a situation where the city descends into chaos," Minns told reporters. However, legal advocates argue that conflating a diplomatic visit with a "major sporting event" sets a dangerous precedent for future political engagements.

"This is not about safety; it is about sanitizing the city for a visiting dignitary," said a spokesperson for the legal team representing the activists. As Herzog arrives, Sydney remains a city on edge, with a heavy police presence ensuring that the "quiet part"—the suppression of dissent—is indeed said out loud.