Protections for people attending places of worship

The NSW Parliament has passed legislation ensuring police have the power to move on protesters who block, harass or intimidate people trying to access places of worship.

The legislation, which passed on Thursday afternoon, follows a recent Supreme Court decision that affected police move-on powers.

Attorney-general Michael Daley said no one should be harassed or intimidated while attending religious services.

“No one should be harassed or intimidated trying to attend their church, synagogue, temple or mosque. This kind of behaviour is unacceptable and has no place in NSW,” Daley said.

“Following the decision of the Supreme Court, we have reintroduced a move on power which balances community protection and the right to protest.”