New NSW bail laws take effect today despite concerns

New NSW laws have come into effect, making it harder for people to get bail if they are accused of serious crimes, like Sydney siege gunman Man Haron Monis.

The state's laws were in the spotlight last month after it was revealed Monis was granted bail six days after a risk-based system was introduced in May, replacing the presumption against bail for serious offences such as murder.

The new laws, which came into effect today, require accused criminals to argue that their detention is not justified, while magistrates have to consider new factors such as whether the accused has links to organised crime.

The laws will apply to people accused of crimes that carry a life sentence, involve the sexual assault of a child or the use of a firearm.

The NSW Bar Association has said the new laws threaten fundamental legal rights.