News and Events

Greater Sydney’s second Covid-19 lockdown is highlighting the once hidden divisions within Sydney and its surrounding areas, with the emergence of differing approaches to Covid compliance policing and the issuing of Covid related fines.

More than 100 legal, civic and political leaders have signed a letter to the NSW Premier warning that “we cannot fine our way out of the pandemic". NSW Police said on Wednesday it had issued nearly 25,000 fines for breaches of the public health order in the month since August 16 during Operation Stay At Home

An open letter addressed to the NSW Premier endorsed by over 100 members of the legal, academic, and political profession has called on the state government to revoke what they’re dubbing “unlawful COVID-19 fines”.

Our August/September e-bulletin canvasses work to raise awareness about laws to help stop the spread of COVID-19, but also to support communities with legal assistance, particularly where fines further entrench disadvantage.

The massive NSW Police enforcement effort that kicked off on August 16 has resulted in nearly 22,000 fines for breaches of the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions. Caitlin Fitzsimmons reports for Sydney Morning Herald

Two siblings in regional NSW with intellectual disabilities have been slapped with fines for not understanding public health orders — adding to concern over police discretion during lockdown. Millie Roberts reports for Junkee

This webinar explored hardship policies and other practical support that is available when disclosures of domestic violence and financial abuse have been made.

There is much debate about police powers to stop, question and search people, with a spotlight on the use of strip-searches, and the negative impact they can have upon vulnerable people.

Redfern Legal Centre (RLC) is calling on the NSW Government to revoke Covid-19 fines that have been issued incorrectly by NSW Police to people undertaking lawful recreation. Sydney Sentinal reports

Redfern Legal Centre Police Accountability Solicitor Samantha Lee joined Backchat to discuss RLC's concerns for vulnerable people being caught up in law enforcement crackdowns. Eddy Diamond reports for FBi Radio