A court has tossed out broad police powers allowing protesters to be moved away from places of worship after complaints of overreach and stifled freedoms.

The anti-protest laws were swiftly implemented in February after a spate of anti-Semitic acts across Sydney and Melbourne, including graffiti, arson attacks and threats of personal violence.

But progressive voices claimed the new powers, which allow police to move on protesters who are deemed to be near places of worship, were unconstitutional and too broad.

The lack of clarity around the reach of the legislation or the definition of nearness meant it wasn’t fit for purpose and would have an effect on protesting in NSW, pro-Palestine activist Josh Lees argued before the state’s supreme court.

Justice Anna Mitchelmore on Thursday side

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