Activists’ rights now online

Redfern Legal Centre has published an Activists’ Rights Manual online, covering topics including identification and searches, organising a protest, terrorism and surveillance, and complaints against police.

People who have been searched on Sydney’s streets might be surprised to learn there is no general law in NSW that requires you to identify yourself to a police officer.

There are exceptions to this and the manual urges caution in refusing to provide ID if people are alone with several police.

People being searched also have a right to privacy and dignity if they ask for it.

The manual also gives tips on police questioning:

‘Remember, there are no ‘off the record’ questions or discussions, even if the police say there are,’ it says.

‘In maintaining silence, you might feel really silly. Police officers may try to make small talk, discuss the weather, or ask you to explain your politics. Police officers are very good at doing this. But remember, as they say on TV, that anything you say can be taken down and used in evidence.’

The manual can be found at activistrightsmanual.com.