NSW Government Concedes Battery and False Imprisonment in Civil Claim by Protester Hannah Thomas
The state of New South Wales has formally admitted to battery and false imprisonment in a civil lawsuit brought by former Greens candidate Hannah Thomas following her arrest at a pro-Palestine protest in Sydney. Court documents filed in the NSW Supreme Court show that lawyers for the state conceded key elements of the claim, including that a police officer punched Thomas in the eye while holding a torch, causing harm and damage. The admission comes as the state offers to cover her medical costs related to the incident.
Thomas, now 36, launched the civil action in October after sustaining permanent damage to her right eye. She underwent three rounds of surgery following the event. The state's defence admits that the conduct of Senior Constable Davis constituted a battery and that Thomas was unlawfully imprisoned after the arrest.
Details of the Incident at the Belmore Protest
The events unfolded in late June 2025 during a peaceful pro-Palestine demonstration outside SEC Plating in Belmore, in Sydney's south-west. Approximately 60 people attended the rally. Thomas was arrested alongside four others. According to the pleadings admitted by the state, an officer punched her in the eye while holding a police torch in his right hand. The state has admitted the first and third uses of force constituted a battery.
Thomas was taken to hospital immediately after the punch. She alleges the arrest was unlawful and that she suffered significant injury. Charges initially laid against her were later withdrawn in court.
Legal Proceedings and State Admissions
In its written defence to Thomas's statement of claim, the state admitted liability for battery and false imprisonment. It also conceded that Thomas suffered harm and damage as a result. However, the state has denied claims of malicious prosecution and malfeasance in public office.
The admissions mean the focus of the civil case will now shift to the assessment of damages and compensation. The state has indicated it will pay Thomas's medical costs arising from the injury.
Background on Hannah Thomas and Her Activism
Hannah Thomas is a former candidate for the Greens who has been involved in pro-Palestine activism. The protest in question was one of many held across Australia in response to events in the Middle East. Thomas has described the incident as a serious breach of her rights during a lawful demonstration.
Following the arrest, Thomas pursued both criminal and civil avenues. A police officer was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm in relation to the incident. The state's recent admissions in the civil matter represent a significant development in the ongoing legal process.
Photo by Max Fleischmann on Unsplash
Police Response and Broader Context of Protest Policing
The admissions highlight questions around the use of force by NSW Police during public demonstrations. Thomas's lawyers have pointed to the specific actions of the officer involved, including the use of a torch during the punch.
NSW Police have not issued a public statement beyond the court filings. The matter remains before the courts, with the state now accepting responsibility for the battery and false imprisonment.
Implications for Civil Liberties and Protest Rights
This case underscores the legal protections available to individuals participating in protests in New South Wales. The admission of battery and false imprisonment by the state provides a measure of accountability in the civil jurisdiction.
Thomas's legal team has welcomed the partial admissions while continuing to pursue the full scope of the claim. The case is expected to proceed to a hearing on damages.
Stakeholder Perspectives and Public Reaction
Supporters of Thomas have described the state's admissions as an important step toward justice. Advocacy groups focused on police accountability have noted the significance of the concessions in court documents.
The incident has drawn attention to the experiences of protesters during recent demonstrations in Sydney. Media coverage has focused on the details of the injury and the legal outcomes.
Future Outlook for the Case and Policing Practices
With liability now admitted on key counts, the civil proceedings are likely to centre on compensation for Thomas's injuries, including ongoing medical needs and any lasting effects on her vision. The state’s offer to cover medical costs forms part of the response.
The case may influence discussions around training and protocols for police interactions with protesters in New South Wales. Further developments are anticipated as the matter progresses through the courts.
Photo by Michael Förtsch on Unsplash
Key Timeline of Events
- Late June 2025: Pro-Palestine protest at SEC Plating in Belmore; Thomas arrested and allegedly punched in the eye.
- Following days: Thomas receives hospital treatment and undergoes initial surgery.
- September 2025: Police officer charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
- October: Thomas files civil claim in NSW Supreme Court.
- June 2026: State files defence admitting battery and false imprisonment.