The NSW Council for Civil Liberties (NSWCCL) has written to the City of Sydney to express our concern over the reported removal of election materials authorised by the "We Vote for Palestine" group across the City of Sydney in the lead-up to the local government election scheduled for 14 September 2024.

It has come to our attention that City of Sydney staff and contractors have been actively removing posters and election materials associated with the “We Vote for Palestine” campaign. The materials in question have been confirmed as appropriately authorised under NSW electoral laws, with the organisers having obtained confirmation from the NSW Electoral Commission regarding the lawful authorisation of their materials.

Comments from Ms Lydia Shelly President, NSW Council for Civil Liberties

"We are concerned that the City of Sydney Council may be censoring political communication at a critical time during the election period. It is essential that all candidates and political groups are treated equally and fairly in accordance with the law. Any potential censorship of political expression undermines the integrity of our electoral process."

“The City of Sydney should clarify the legal basis for these actions. Freedom of political communication is a cornerstone of our system of government, and it is crucial during elections. The removal of authorised electoral materials raises serious concerns about potential infringement on political expression and the fair and equitable conduct of the election process.

“We have sought a formal response from the City of Sydney regarding the rationale behind the removal of these materials and will continue to closely monitor. We reiterate our commitment to safeguarding political freedoms and ensuring that all voices are heard in the democratic process.”

“The NSWCCL looks forward to a prompt and transparent response from the City of Sydney on this issue.”