Police will ‘choose their mark’ to enforce protest slogan ban
Sydney Morning Herald
by Matt DennienFebruary 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Queensland police have outlined their strategy for enforcing a new law that bans certain protest slogans deemed to incite hostility or offend. The legislation, proposed by the Crisafulli government, would criminalize phrases like “river to the sea” or “globalize the intifada,” which are commonly used in pro-Palestinian protests. Instead of making mass arrests, police plan to use video evidence and selectively choose specific moments and individuals to intervene, focusing on protecting community safety while avoiding inflaming situations.
The law has sparked significant controversy, with critics arguing it infringes on free speech and unfairly targets Palestinian supporters. Protesters have raised concerns about how the vaguely defined terms in the legislation could be interpreted and enforced. During a parliamentary hearing, Greens MP Michael Berkman questioned how police would handle large crowds chanting banned phrases. Police officials, including Assistant Commissioner Brian Connors, emphasized that officers would act strategically to avoid escalating tensions and prioritize public safety.
The bill also includes changes to gun laws, hate symbol bans, and increased penalties for offenses related to places of worship. Despite these measures, religious groups, unions, and legal experts across the political spectrum have expressed strong opposition in over 300 submissions. Critics argue the law’s broad scope could lead to misuse and further polarization.
The “river to the sea” phrase, which refers to Palestinian calls for self-determination but is also framed by some as a threat to Jewish communities, is particularly contentious. Supporters of the Palestinian cause argue it represents resistance against oppression, while others claim it incites violence. This tension highlights the bill’s potential to deepen divisions and draw international attention to Australia’s approach to balancing free speech with public safety.
The debate over this legislation reflects broader concerns about the balance between national security and individual freedoms. As Queensland moves toward implementing these laws, critics warn of their potential impact on social justice movements and the broader community’s sense of safety and inclusion.
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/19/2026