The Jewish Community Council of Victoria (JCCV) supports Victoria Police’s calls for a proposed change in Victorians laws which will put a permit system into place for protests.

“The current laws in Victoria do not adequately balance the rights to free speech and freedom of association, and the freedom for all to move safely through public areas,” Naomi Levin, JCCV CEO, said.

“Our community saw this most obviously last November when a group of protesters took to the suburban streets of Caulfield, intimidating local Jewish residents and forcing the evacuation of a synagogue service.”

“The JCCV values free speech and believes that having permits will not stifle this right.

“Having a permit system in place will ensure that the general population can continue to safely access public spaces, without harassment, intimidation, or violence that we have seen. While, on the other hand, protesters exercise their right to demonstrate peacefully.”