Up to 15 people were arrested and 12 charged, with participants protesting about the presence of Israeli defence contractors Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and the Australian subsidiary of Elbit Systems, which were listed among other exhibitors at the Indo Pacific International Maritime Exposition.
Held at the ICC Sydney from November 4-6, the event attracted the majority of protesters on the first day.
It had more than 900 participating exhibitors and well over 1000 participants.
The majority of delegates and exhibitors were unaware of the protests which were focused at the southern end of the convention centre.
Security at the event was high with access to the convention centre only provided to ticketed participants.
The Indo Pacific International Maritime Exposition is organised and managed by AMDA Foundation Limited with support from the Royal Australian Navy, the Australian Government Department of Defence and the New South Wales State Government.
AMDA is an Australian not-for-profit corporation established to promote the development of aviation and Australia’s industrial, manufacturing and information/communications technology resources in the fields of aviation, aerospace, maritime, defence and security.
AMDA CEO Justin Giddings said at the conclusion of the expo there had been outstanding participation from industry, government and defence stakeholders, and the quality of engagement has been exceptional.
Mr Giddings acknowledged the strong partnership with the Royal Australian Navy and the support of Principal Sponsor, the NSW Government, in helping deliver a world-class event.
“We unreservedly thank the NSW Police for keeping everyone who attended Indo Pacific 2025 safe and allowing this important event to continue to thrive in its purpose, showcasing Australian industry to the world,” he said.