Thousands of people participated in anti-immigration marches and counter-protests across Australia on Sunday, resulting in violent clashes and arrests.
The protests, organized by the March for Australia group, aimed to promote an end to mass migration, while counter-protesters from the Palestine Action Group (PAG) and other organizations countered with pro-immigration and pro-Palestine messages.
Melbourne Protests Turn Violent
In Melbourne, a brawl erupted at the intersection of Bourke Street and Swanston Street in the CBD, with a woman reportedly thrown to the ground during the altercation.
Police deployed pepper spray to disperse the crowds.
Tom Sewell, a self-described neo-Nazi and figurehead of the National Socialist Network (NSN), addressed the Melbourne crowd, calling for an end to mass migration.
About 30 NSN members attended the Sydney march, while neo-Nazi Jacob Hersant was spotted at the Brisbane rally.
Politicians Condemn Protests
Victorian Police Minister Anthony Carbines labeled anti-immigration protesters “unhinged grubs,” stating that they sought to promote hate and undermine social cohesion.
Environment Minister Murray Watt condemned the rallies, saying they were “un-Australian.”
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke concurred, emphasizing that there was no place in Australia for people who sought to divide and undermine social cohesion.
Nationwide Protests and Arrests
In Sydney, thousands gathered in Belmore Park, with an estimated 15,000 people attending the march.
A woman was arrested for breaching the peace after allegedly screaming abuse at PAG protesters.
In Brisbane, hundreds turned out, with some donning Australian flags.
Police presence was reported across the country, with some politicians backing the march, including Queensland MP Bob Katter and Senator Pauline Hanson.