The New South Wales Government will put stronger penalties in place for disruptive activities that block the passage of trains, endangering the safety of rail workers and disrupting passengers.
New legislation to be introduced will put in place a maximum fine of $22,000 for the offence of “obstructing a railway.” and align penalties for those found guilty of obstructing a railway or damaging or disrupting major facilities.
Penalties will include facing up to two years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to $22,000 (200 penalty units), or both. Currently, the offence provision under the Crimes Act 1900 does not specify a fine.
The penalties for blocking the passage of trains will align with changes to laws, passed by the New South Wales Parliament in 2022, making it an offence to block or obstruct major roads, bridges and tunnels and major facilities such as ports and railway stations.
This provision also covers light rail and tramways and people found to have assisted those who directly commit the offence.
By strengthening the penalty, the government aims to deter dangerous conduct that puts train driver, rail worker and passenger safety at risk.
Premier Chris Minns said introducing this fine for blocking a railway line sends a strong message: this conduct is not acceptable.
“Recent protests have centred on railway lines, putting everyone’s safety at risk,” he said.
“Protests on railway lines are seriously dangerous and disruptive, and they are not tolerated in New South Wales.
“Train drivers, passengers travelling to work, and companies going about their business should not have to contend with protesters on the tracks – it’s that simple.”