Tensions erupted across Australia during the March For Australia rallies on Sunday, resulting in multiple arrests amid violent clashes. In major cities including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Canberra, tens of thousands of participants gathered to express their opposition to immigration policies. While rally organizers claimed their intention was to advocate for reduced migration rather than to promote racism, many speeches veered into xenophobic rhetoric.
In Sydney, approximately 15,000 people attended the rally, which featured a notable presence of nationalists, dogs, and at least one horse adorned with Australian flags. Despite heavy police presence, including hundreds of officers, the event remained relatively peaceful, with the exception of one incident where a woman was removed for allegedly breaching the peace in Hyde Park. Acting Assistant Commissioner Scott Tanner expressed satisfaction with the crowd’s behavior, stating that most attendees adhered to police instructions.
Conversely, Melbourne faced significant unrest as violence broke out between anti-immigration demonstrators and counter-protesters advocating against fascism and supporting pro-Palestinian causes. Victoria Police reported that six individuals were arrested and charged with offenses including assaulting police and behaving in a riotous manner. Two officers sustained injuries from bottles thrown during the clashes, which required the use of pepper spray to disperse the crowd. The estimated attendance in Melbourne was around 5,000.
In Brisbane, the rally drew approximately 6,000 participants. One man was arrested for assaulting police, while another faced charges for breaching the peace. These incidents highlight the growing concern over the increasing visibility of far-right sentiments within Australia.
One prominent figure at the Canberra rally was Pauline Hanson, leader of the One Nation party, who addressed the crowd gathered outside Parliament House. She called for reduced migration and emphasized a sense of Australian pride. However, her speech also included controversial claims disputing climate change and criticizing Indigenous Welcome to Country ceremonies, which drew backlash from counter-protesters who chanted slogans against racism and fascism.
The Australian Council of Social Services condemned the rallies and the rhetoric surrounding them. CEO Cassandra Goldie stated, “These rallies should not provide a platform to divide communities or spread misinformation about migration and its impacts.” She emphasized that Australia’s diversity is a strength rather than a threat.
Federal Cabinet minister Murray Watt also expressed concern over the nature of the protests, noting that their organization by neo-Nazi groups underscores the divisive and hateful sentiments driving these rallies. As the landscape of public discourse on migration continues to evolve, the reactions to these rallies reveal deep-seated divisions within Australian society.
As the nation grapples with these issues, the impact of such gatherings on community cohesion and national identity remains a topic of urgent discussion.
