Justice for Palestine plans 7000-person march on Brisbane's Story Bridge amid community concerns

West Australian

14 hours ago

A pro-Palestinian group has applied to shut down Brisbane's Story Bridge for a large-scale protest planned for Sunday, August 24, mirroring the massive rally held recently on Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Organisers from Justice for Palestine estimate that about 7000 people will march from Raymond Park to Centenary Place, spanning 1.5 kilometres.
Queensland Police will decide whether to approve the event.
A police spokesperson confirmed receiving the application and said it is under assessment, emphasising that 'the QPS recognises that every person has the right to peacefully assemble under the Human Rights Act and Peaceful Assembly Act.'
While, Brisbane City Council opposes the protest.
Premier David Crisafulli said the decision rests with police and stressed the importance of community safety.
'Shutting down a city is no way to endear Queenslanders to your cause,' he said.
Justice For Palestine spokesman Omar Ashour pointed to the Sydney march turnout and rising attendance at Brisbane events to predict strong participation at the Story Bridge march.
'The Harbour Bridge rally last Sunday changed the tone in the media and in government,' Mr Ashour said.
'They realise they have underestimated the feeling in the community both here and overseas. It's only words so far, but the words from the government are starting to change. This is all a reflection of the genuine sentiment in the street,' he said.
Mr Ashour added that speakers, including current or former politicians, will address attendees at the end of the march.
He acknowledged the march could take several hours to reach the CBD, likely causing significant traffic disruptions on the Story Bridge, a key link between Brisbane's north and south.
Queensland Jewish Board of Deputies president Jason Steinberg expressed concern the protest would exacerbate violence and anti-Semitism toward the Jewish community.
'It's not a great environment for Jews in Queensland or Australia at the moment and that's very sad,' he said.
Mr Steinberg condemned the Sydney march as 'abhorrent' for its protesters displaying banners of Iranian leader Ali Khamenei, Hezbollah symbols, and chanting slogans perceived as calls to expel Israelis from their land.
Historically, Brisbane's largest protest was against the Iraq War in 2003, drawing around 100,000 people.
The Story Bridge has previously managed large crowds, including 74,000 attendees during its 75th birthday celebration, spread out over several hours.
The recent Sydney protest saw an estimated 90,000 participants, surpassing earlier expectations of 50,000.