A very recent case of pepper spray was in the courts in NSW, all charges dropped, she didnt use it,
but when found with her she told police it was for self protection, they arrested her and later charged her.
But all of it was dismissed by the court.
https://9now.nine.com.au/a-current-...n-sydney/1b6eb6e3-9ff0-42dc-8761-5293aa8b8aa4
another -
https://www.smh.com.au/lifestyle/i-...for-carrying-pepper-spray-20140723-3cffk.html
Ultimately if you are in fear for your life or someone else's life you can do what is needed to prevent an attack, even as far as to kill,
NOT the first choice I would hope.
But it seems even the courts in NSW are not inclined to implement a punishment for a offence like this.
Police will tell you it is bad juju, but where are they when so many girls and woman have been raped and murdered. :/
A different Court outcome if you used it in an attack I would think.
What ever you do,
NEVER tell Police that you have ANY item in your possession to be used for self defence
, they have no common sense on this, they see charges and fines and just will question you to drop you further into it !!
A woman was charged successfully for having a hairbrush with a pointy handle, she did herself in for saying she could use it "to stab in self defence"
She told them what they were fishing for.
Be a lot more situationally aware, and have a good escape plan, go in pairs, dont provoke an extended conversation / arguement - just leave but dont lose eyesight
of the abuser, call the cops instantly on the first words of harassment, speed dial.
Be safe out there.