Thousands of Australians participated in Invasion Day rallies and anti-immigration protests on January 26, 2025. Events unfolded in major cities, with tensions rising at a rally in Perth where an object was reportedly thrown into the crowd, leading to significant police intervention.
In Perth, police established an exclusion zone after the incident at Forrest Place in the Central Business District. According to a statement from WA Police, “Significant police resources have been deployed to the area, and members of the public are asked to stay away from the area and await further advice.” One person is currently in custody as authorities continue their investigation.
Footage circulating on social media showed officers advising attendees to move away from areas deemed “dangerous.” Despite the disruption, rallies continued across the nation, with many participants enduring extreme heat to advocate for changing the date of Australia Day or replacing it with a day of mourning.
Multifaceted Protests in Major Cities
In Melbourne, protesters gathered at the steps of Parliament House for a smoking ceremony and speeches from Indigenous Elders and activists. The event aimed to raise awareness about the historical significance of the day, which many view as a day of mourning. Activist Meriki Onus urged participants to “please, do not engage” in potential confrontations with counter-protesters.
Millie Ingram, speaking on behalf of Uncle Mark Brown, a Burunong Elder, addressed the crowd. Mr. Brown previously faced heckling by neo-Nazis during a Welcome to Country ceremony at Melbourne’s Shrine of Remembrance on Anzac Day 2025. Protesters chanted slogans such as “Always was, always will be” and “What do we want? Land rights. When do we want them? Now,” as they concluded their largely peaceful march near Flinders Street Station.
Nearby, the March for Australia rally attracted a different crowd, with attendees chanting calls for deportation and waving Australian flags while supporting Pauline Hanson’s One Nation party. Tensions escalated as protesters encountered police, who worked to maintain order amid the two demonstrations that unfolded just streets apart.
Nationwide Protests Highlight Divisions
Across Australia, protests echoed similar sentiments of division. In Brisbane, Senator Pauline Hanson addressed a gathering, expressing pride in Australian identity. “I’ve never felt so honoured and proud as I am to be here today,” she stated, receiving enthusiastic applause from the crowd.
In Sydney, the March for Australia rally showcased a heavy police presence as protesters shouted nationalistic chants. Some demonstrators held signs advocating for the release of Joel Davis, a neo-Nazi currently on remand for allegedly harassing a federal MP. Earlier in the day, Invasion Day protesters began their event in Hyde Park, observing a moment of silence in memory of victims of recent violence, including the Lake Cargelligo shooting.
NSW Premier Chris Minns expressed hope that protests would proceed peacefully, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy for violence or hate speech on the streets of Sydney. The events across various cities highlight ongoing national discussions about identity, history, and the future of Australia.
