Political protest is an important form of expression in a democracy. Community members can peacefully assembly in public spaces, such as Civic Square outside the Legislative Assembly, to share their views with decision makers.

File notice of your protest

You need to complete the Application to Use a Public Place for Events e-form , selecting the ‘Political activity’ event type. By completing this form, it helps authorities ensure your protest is safe for everyone – both those participating and those nearby.

If your protest includes a march to Civic Square, you may also need to provide a temporary traffic plan. Access Canberra can provide advice on this. ACT Policing also provide advice and assistance with event safety and security.

• Call the ACT Government public land use team on (02) 6205 8794
• Call Access Canberra’s event coordination team on (02) 6205 4400
• Call ACT Policing on 131 444

Keep things courteous

Passions can run high at protests, but it’s important to be mindful of people working in or visiting Civic Square and surrounding buildings:

• keep access to the Assembly building’s public entrance on Civic Square clear
• ensure there are paths for the public to get to surrounding buildings, including the Canberra Theatre Centre, Civic Library, and the CMAG building, and
• keep sound amplification equipment (e.g., speakers, megaphones) at a reasonable volume and facing away from the Assembly building and Canberra Theatre Centre.

No protesting inside the Assembly

You cannot bring protest signs, wear clothing with political or protest slogans, or interrupt proceedings in any way if you are sitting in the galleries in the chamber or committee rooms.

Laws that affect protests

The right to peaceful assembly, including lawful protest, is protected in the ACT by section 15(1) of the Human Rights Act . There are laws which affect people organising and attending protests. It is your responsibility to be aware of how these apply to you. Some of these laws include:

• Public Unleased Land Act 2013 , which regulates the use of spaces like Civic Square
• Legislative Assembly Precincts Act 2001
• Criminal Code 2002 , re: property damage (s403) and obstructing a public official (s361)
• Crimes Act 1900 , re: defacing public property (s119), causing public alarm (s140A-D), and obstructing access to public places (s154).