15 shots were fired as Hells Angels bikie gang and the Middle East Boys street gang clashed as bystanders ducked for cover.

15 shots were fired as rival gangs clashed and bystanders ducked for cover. The shootout involved about a dozen men in three cars, with security footage showing some of the men firing shots as they chased each other down the street. Police are investigating if those involved were linked to the Hells Angels bikie gang and the Middle East Boys street gang. No one was injured in the incident, with police taking three people into custody for questioning. The shootout sparked a debate over the passage of legislation to crack down on outlaw motorcycle gangs, including laws to prevent people associating with gang members. The legislation is before parliament's upper house. Attorney-General Michael Atkinson said yesterday's shootout vindicated the Government's stand and he urged the parliament to pass the new laws as soon as possible. But Australian Democrats MP Sandra Kanck said Mr Atkinson was trying to scare parliament into passing the draconian laws. "The Attorney-General wants parliament to pass laws that could see a church volunteer going to jail for even talking to someone who used to be a bikie," Ms Kanck said. "The Democrats will support all legitimate measures to crack down on crime regardless of who commits it, but we cannot support legislation that finds guilt on the basis of who you are friends with."