OFF THE WIRE
About 70 people gathered at the steps of Parliament House in Perth to protest against the State Government's proposed anti-association laws.The Government wants to make it illegal for people in known criminal organisations, including outlaw bikie gxxgs, to associate with each other.
Anthony Shepherd, from the United Motorcycle Council of WA, says if passed, the laws will affect the entire community.
"It's very important that everyone realise that this law is coming for them, not just the bikies," he said.
At a previous meeting, the Socialist Alliance's Alex Bainbridge said the bill challenged basic human rights.
"If someone's committed a crime, fair enough, they should be punished for that," he said.
"What this bill is going to punish people who are friends or associates, who come into contact with, people who have committed no crime themselves so that's a real fundamental injustice.
"And, it wouldn't matter if it was just bikies who are going to be affected by that.
"An injustice against anyone is something everyone should stand up against."
At the same meeting, the Civil Liberties Council's David Pugh said the legislation was outdated and unjust.
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-05-15/bikies-protest-against-association-laws/4012652
