Activists in Western Australia are preparing legal action against a police ban that prevents them from entering a designated security zone near the Perth weapons expo, known as the Land Forces expo. The ban, issued under special powers granted by the WA government last month, affects at least 12 individuals, including an 18-year-old and a Greens MP's staffer.
Background of the Perth Weapons Expo Ban
The Land Forces weapons expo is scheduled to be held at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre from 6 October. In preparation, Western Australia police used new legislation, the Land Forces (Special Powers) Bill 2026, to ban activists from entering a security zone surrounding the venue. This zone extends from the Elizabeth Quay bus port to the convention centre. The legislation, passed last month, grants police expanded stop-and-search powers and the authority to exclude individuals from the area.
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Among those banned are 18-year-old Will Shanahan and 22-year-old Matilda Lane-Rose, who works as a staffer for Greens MP Sophie McNeill. Lane-Rose said she was called by police on Thursday and informed she was on the exclusion list, despite having no plans to attend the protest organised by the WA Anti-War Collective.
Legal Action Threatened by Activists and Greens MP
In a media conference held with Greens MP Sophie McNeill on Friday, Shanahan and Lane-Rose announced they would pursue legal action if police and Police Minister Reece Whitby did not revise the ban. "We've sought legal advice, and we think that we have standing to pursue a judicial review into this decision," Lane-Rose stated. The activists argue that the ban infringes on their rights to peaceful protest and assembly.
Key Takeaways
- At least 12 activists banned from security zone near Perth weapons expo.
- Ban issued under new WA legislation granting special police powers.
- Activists, backed by Greens MP, threaten judicial review.
- Police Minister Reece Whitby urged to revise the ban.
- Protest organised by WA Anti-War Collective against Land Forces expo.
Comparison of Police Powers Before and After Legislation
| Power | Before Legislation | After Legislation |
|---|---|---|
| Stop-and-Search | Limited to reasonable suspicion | Expanded to any individual in security zone |
| Exclusion Orders | Not available for this event | Police can ban individuals from security zone |
| Duration of Powers | N/A | Until event concludes |
Implications for Civil Liberties and Future Protests
The use of special powers has raised concerns among civil liberties groups, who argue that such measures could set a precedent for suppressing dissent. The activists' legal challenge, if successful, could limit the scope of police powers in future events. The case also highlights the tension between ensuring security for controversial events and protecting the right to protest.
The WA Anti-War Collective, which organises the protest, has vowed to continue demonstrating against the weapons expo, which they claim promotes militarism and violence. The expo, featuring defence industry exhibitors, has drawn criticism from peace groups across Australia.
FAQ
What is the Land Forces weapons expo?
What is the Land Forces weapons expo?
The Land Forces weapons expo is a defence industry exhibition held in Perth, showcasing military equipment and technology. It is scheduled from 6 October at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Why were activists banned from the security zone?
Why were activists banned from the security zone?
Western Australia police used special powers under the Land Forces (Special Powers) Bill 2026 to ban individuals deemed a potential risk to security. The ban prevents them from entering the designated area around the expo.
What legal action are the activists planning?
What legal action are the activists planning?
The activists, supported by Greens MP Sophie McNeill, are seeking a judicial review of the police decision. They argue that the ban is an overreach of police powers and infringes on their right to protest.
Who is affected by the ban?
Who is affected by the ban?
At least 12 individuals, including 18-year-old Will Shanahan and 22-year-old Matilda Lane-Rose, have been banned from the security zone. Lane-Rose works as a staffer for Greens MP Sophie McNeill.
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