RESIDENTS across New South Wales are being asked to sign an Upper House online petition to prompt debate in the New South Wales parliament about the introduction of Castle Law.

The Upper House petition has been proposed by Moree resident Kelly James, who said a parliamentary sponsor has been secured to present the petition.

Mrs James said Castle Law is based on the belief that a person’s home is their sanctuary.

“A person’s home is a place where they should feel safe and secure. In essence, Castle Law provides the right to protect oneself and one’s family from harm without the fear of legal repercussions,” Mrs James said.

“I believe that everyone deserves to feel safe in their own home. The thought of an intruder threatening our peace and security is terrifying.

“This legislation is not just about laws; it’s about the right to live without fear. It’s about protecting our families, our loved ones, and our communities.”

Mrs James said New South Wales already allows self-defence, but laws relating to this are more general and subject to interpretation.

“Currently, the force used must be reasonable in the circumstances as the person perceives them, and it isn’t automatically lawful,” Mrs James said.

“In New South Wales, whether your actions are considered lawful self-defence depends on whether a court decides that it was a reasonable response to the threat.

“So, a key difference is that Castle Law gives stronger, clearer legal protection inside your home, while New South Wales’ self-defence laws are more flexible and determined case by case, often without the ‘no duty to retreat’ guarantee or automatic immunity from prosecution,” she said.

New South residents can sign the Upper House of NSW petition here: Upper House Castle Law Petition.

Moree resident Kelly James said Castle Law is based on the belief that a person’s home is their sanctuary. She encourages NSW residents to sign an Upper House online petition to prompt debate in the New South Wales parliament about the introduction of Castle Law.

Mrs James said, if introduced in New South Wales, Castle Law will include several key features.

Self-defence

Individuals would have the right to use reasonable force to defend themselves against an intruder.

Protection of property

Homeowners would be empowered to protect their homes and belongings from unlawful entry.

No duty to retreat

In situations where a person feels threatened in their own home, they would not be required to retreat before using force.

She said benefits of introducing Castle Law in New South Wales are profound.

Enhanced personal safety

It would empower individuals to take charge of their own safety and that of their loved ones.

Deterrent to crime

Knowing that homeowners have the right to defend themselves could deter potential criminals from attempting break-ins.

Legal Clarity

It would provide clear guidelines on self-defence, reducing confusion and fear around legal consequences for those defending their homes.

“By introducing Castle Law, we can expect several positive outcomes,” Mrs James said.

“Residents would feel more secure in their homes, knowing they have the right to defend themselves and a reduction in home invasions and burglaries are possible as potential criminals think twice before entering a property.

“Individuals would also be empowered to act in defence of themselves and their families without hesitation,” she said.

New South residents can sign the Upper House of NSW petition here: Upper House Castle Law Petition.

“Initially, the petition was to the Lower House and I am grateful people took the time to sign it, but after consultation with a number of MPs, a petition to the Upper House may gain traction quicker, and this has been initiated,” Mrs James said.

“If people have already signed the Lower House petition, could they please take a moment to sign the Upper House petition and share among their contacts.”