Sydney on High Alert as NSW Government Activates Special Security Powers for Presidential Visit

State Government Invokes Emergency Provisions

On Sunday, 8 February 2026, the New South Wales Government officially activated special public safety arrangements as Sydney prepares for the high-profile arrival of Israeli President Isaac Herzog. Premier Chris Minns has designated the five-day diplomatic tour as a "major event," granting the NSW Police Force significantly expanded powers to manage movement and security across the Sydney CBD and eastern suburbs.

The security operation is one of the largest seen in the city in recent years. More than 3,000 police officers have been deployed today, with 500 specifically assigned to monitor potential flashpoints in the city center. The government’s decision to invoke these special provisions follows a period of heightened tension and is aimed at ensuring the safety of both the visiting delegation and the general public.

Security Measures and Public Impact

The special powers, which come into effect today, allow police to conduct searches and implement exclusion zones without the usual warrants. Key details of the government's security strategy include:

• Increased Police Presence: Thousands of officers are patrolling transport hubs, including Central Station and Town Hall, as well as the Bondi precinct.
• Major Event Status: Special legislation allows for fines and immediate arrests for non-compliance with police directions within designated zones.
• Protest Restrictions: NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon has confirmed that certain proposed protest routes through the CBD remain unauthorized due to safety concerns.

Political Backdrop and Government Response

The visit is a critical political event for the Minns administration, serving as a formal act of solidarity following the tragic events at Bondi Beach in December 2025. President Herzog is scheduled to meet with victims' families and senior Australian leaders to offer strength to the community. However, the visit has sparked significant political debate, with the Palestinian Action Group and human rights advocates calling for the invitation to be rescinded.

Premier Minns addressed the media today, urging for calm and order. He emphasized that the increased police powers are not intended to stifle lawful protest but are a necessary measure to "lower the temperature" and maintain public order. While no formal council sessions are scheduled for this Sunday, the executive branch of the NSW Government remains in an active security session, coordinating with federal authorities to manage the logistical challenges of the presidential arrival.

Commuters and residents are advised to expect significant delays in the CBD throughout the day and into Monday as security cordons are established. The NSW Government has indicated that these measures will remain in place until the conclusion of the visit on Thursday.