UPDATE: A series of tense anti-immigration protests, branded as the March for Australia, erupted across major Australian cities today, drawing a diverse crowd that included neo-Nazis and politicians. The protests, held in Melbourne, Sydney, Canberra, and Brisbane, have been condemned by officials as divisive and hateful.
In Melbourne, the demonstration gathered outside Flinders Street Station, where speakers, including notorious neo-Nazi Thomas Sewell, addressed a crowd waving Australian flags and chanting anti-immigration slogans. Sewell claimed, “If we do not stop immigration, then our death is certain.” The rally quickly escalated as a counter-protest organized by pro-Palestinian and anti-fascist groups formed nearby.
Authorities confirmed that Victoria Police deployed a significant presence to manage the protests, blocking streets to keep the groups apart. However, tensions flared, resulting in confrontations where bottles and cans were thrown over police lines. Police in riot gear responded with pepper spray against some counter-protesters.
In Canberra, a crowd of several hundred gathered near Lake Burley Griffin, where politicians Pauline Hanson and Malcolm Roberts were present. Protesters chanted slogans while a smaller counter-rally took place across the road, separated by police barriers.
The situation in Sydney remained relatively calm, with police managing three separate events, including a marathon and a pro-Palestine rally, while monitoring the anti-immigration protest.
In Brisbane, a few thousand protesters marched from the Roma Street Parklands to the city botanical gardens. They faced brief opposition from counter-protesters, including First Nations activist Uncle Wayne Wharton, who confronted participants about the historical impacts of colonization.
Policymakers expressed their outrage at the protests. Jacinta Allan, the Victorian premier, stated, “No one who has ever tried to divide this country has ever succeeded,” during a multicultural gala. Federal opposition leader Sussan Ley emphasized on social media that there is “no place for violence, racism or intimidation,” urging unity against divisive sentiments.
Federal Labor minister Murray Watt also condemned the rallies, stating, “We absolutely condemn the March for Australia rally that’s going on today; it’s not about increasing social harmony.” Meanwhile, Julian Leeser, shadow attorney general, warned participants to be cautious of extremist elements within the protests.
As these protests continue to unfold, authorities will remain vigilant to ensure public safety and prevent further clashes. The impact on community relations and public sentiment surrounding immigration policies is expected to resonate for days to come. Stay tuned for live updates on this developing story.
