Senator Lee Rhiannon has vowed to mount a legal challenge against a fine issued by Hawkesbury police for her part in a Thompson Square protest rally.
The Australian Greens senator was among a group of people issued with infringement notices for blocking access to a work site at Thompson Square during the January 8 rally, organised by the Hawkesbury Wobblers.
Both Senator Rhiannon and Macquarie MP Susan Templeman were issued with infringement notices for disobeying police directions and being a pedestrian that obstructs drivers.
“On January 8 I was amongst a group of peaceful protesters forcibly removed by police from a protest against the destruction a significant heritage site in Windsor,” Senator Rhiannon said in a statement.
“I was issued with an infringement notice and given the option of paying a fine or contesting the charges in court.
“I’m concerned that since the former Baird government brought in anti-protest laws in 2016, peaceful community protests are increasingly being met with unnecessary force from police.
“I will be attending court alongside the brave community members who have been campaigning on this issue for so many years.”
I will be attending court alongside the brave community members who have been campaigning on this issue for so many years.
- Senator Lee Rhiannon
Under the NSW Road Rules 2014, the offence of disobeying police direction carries a fine of $330, while being a pedestrian and obstructing drivers is $73.
However, if challenged in court the fines rise to a maximum of $2,200 for each offence.
Ms Templeman has confirmed she will pay her fines.
“Like the other protesters who received infringement notices in relation to actions on January 8, I was advised that I had a choice to pay or to take the matter to court,” she said. “I have decided to pay the fines.
“Once others who received fines have considered their options, they will have my full support in whatever individual decision they make.
“I continue to support local activists as they work to raise awareness about the heritage that is being destroyed in Thompson Square and the poor traffic outcomes from the proposed bridge.”
Under the Commonwealth’s Crime and Candidacy rules, persons convicted of a crime punishable by a year or more in prison are disqualified from parliament. A number of other protesters have also been fined over the incident.
