Protesters formed a “blockade” in the Port of Newcastle on Sunday in the third day of unrest, calling on the federal government to rule out new coal and gas mines and for a 78% tax on coal and gas exports.
Police said 156 adults and 14 youths have been charged over the three days of the protest: 138 with disruption of a major facility, and 32 for not complying with a direction by an authorised officer relating to safety. Two were refused bail to appear at Newcastle local court on Monday. Police said there may be more arrests.
The NSW police minister, Yasmin Catley, called the protest “irresponsible theatrics”.
“[Police have] done an outstanding job managing this dangerous and volatile situation,” she said on Sunday.
“I strongly condemn the reckless behaviour of those who think it is acceptable to waste critical policing resources and endanger officers with self-serving stunts.”
“The NSW Police Force will adopt a zero-tolerance approach to actions which threaten public safety and the safe passage of vessels,” they said in a statement.
The safe passage of vessels was protected by law and police warned “unlawful activity may result in fines or imprisonment”.