Human rights experts criticise use of restraining orders to silence climate defenders
The Human Rights Law Centre today criticised the use of restraining orders by Woodside CEO Meg O’Neill, which silence climate activists.
Over the last few days, three Disrupt Burrup protesters were served with orders which prevent them from “making any reference” to O’Neill via email, message apps or social media.
Restraining orders are primarily used to protect women and children from family violence perpetrators. These orders have been sought in unprecedented circumstances, despite there being no accusations that the protesters have at any stage used or threatened violence against anyone at Woodside.
Alice Drury, Acting Legal Director of the Human Rights Law Centre:
“In a display of extraordinary fragility on the part of Woodside CEO Meg O’Neill, she has sought orders that go far beyond what can possibly be justified in a democracy. These orders send the message that people who speak out against multibillion dollar fossil fuel companies, can expect to be intimidated and silenced through court proceedings.”
“These orders are overreach and infringe upon the activists’ right to speak out about the climate and environmental implications of Woodside’s controversial gas drilling proposal in Burrup Hub. The orders should be cancelled immediately.
“Murujuga Traditional Owners, climate activists and environmental organisations have longstanding, deep concerns about Woodside’s proposed gas drilling in Murujuga which would be the largest new fossil fuel project in Australia. Their concerns must be heard.”
Michelle Bennett: 0419 100 519, michelle.bennett@hrlc.org.au
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Acknowledgement of Country
The Human Rights Law Centre acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands across Australia, including the lands of the Wurundjeri, Boon Wurrung, Gadigal, Ngunnawal, Cammeraygal, Darug, Wadawurrung, Turrbal and Jagera people where we work from.
We pay our respect to Elders past and present. This land always was, and always will be Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander land. Sovereignty has never been ceded.
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