New South Wales Police have declared a critical incident following the injury of Hannah Thomas, a former Greens candidate, during her arrest at a pro-Palestine protest in Sydney's south-west on June 27, 2025 [1][2][3].

Thomas, 35, who ran for the seat of Grayndler against Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in the 2025 federal election, sustained severe injuries to her right eye during the arrest [2][3]. The incident occurred outside SEC Plating on Lakemba Street in Belmore, where approximately 60 people were protesting [3].

The protesters allege that the facility is supplying components used in jets flown by the Israel Defence Force, a claim that SEC Plating has denied [3]. According to NSW Police, Thomas was arrested for 'allegedly failing to comply' after two move-on directions were issued to those at the protest [3].

The decision to declare a critical incident came on June 30, 2025, after days of refusals from NSW Police [1]. The declaration was made following a review of Thomas's medical records, which showed her injury was serious enough to warrant a full investigation with independent oversight [1][2].

'NSW Police had sought medical information from the 35-year-old woman, on multiple occasions, since the incident to determine if her injuries had met the critical incident threshold,' a police statement said [5].

Thomas has undergone surgery and stated that the incident could result in permanent vision loss in her right eye [1][4]. The investigation will be led by a team from Campbelltown City Police Area Command and reviewed by the Professional Standards Command [2].

In light of the incident, lawyers are investigating the possibility of civil proceedings against NSW police over alleged excessive use of force during the protest [4]. Peter O'Brien, principal solicitor at O'Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors, which is representing several protesters including Thomas, described the incident as 'deeply concerning' [4].

The case has sparked discussions about police conduct during protests and the balance between maintaining public order and protecting the right to peaceful demonstration. As the investigation unfolds, it is likely to draw continued attention from both the public and legal observers.