2 August, 2013

Protesters continue to fight McDonalds wide ranging Supreme Court injunction

The legal action and tactics being used by McDonalds Australia to stop protesters in Tecoma Victoria are an affront to civil liberties, says national social justice law firm Maurice Blackburn.

An interim Supreme Court injunction which restricts the movement of protesters opposed to a-24 hour fast food outlet in Tecoma, in the Dandenong Ranges applies to a group of protesters known as “The Tecoma 8” and a much broader group for which some of the defendants have been deemed to be representatives.

Malcolm Cumming, principal lawyer said, “The orders sought by McDonalds, particularly as they apply to the representative group, are so broad they could apply to people who do not even know they are of subject them.”

“On top of this, protesters have to watch every move they make on social media.”

“The orders are intimidating for a broader group than just eight protesters. They bind an ill-defined class of people, and are structured in such a way that, if successful, could have significant implications for community protests.”

“This is an enormous, well-resourced company, which is notorious for fighting its opponents in court.”

Maurice Blackburn is acting pro bono in this case because peaceful protest is fundamental to civil rights and democracy.

The legal team is seeking to adjourn a court hearing on Tuesday to allow more time to prepare the legal case because material including transcripts of social media activity were not made available to Maurice Blackburn or some of the defendants within the timeframe to allow the hearing to proceed.

The matter is scheduled to return to the Supreme Court of Victoria on Tuesday 6 August 2013.

Media inquiries:
Amanda Tattam Maurice Blackburn
E atattam@mauriceblackburn.com.au
@wefightforfair