URGENT UPDATE: Major cities across Australia are bracing for anti-immigration protests and counter-demonstrations today, March 5, 2023. The rallies, organized by the group March for Australia, are set to kick off at 12 PM local time in cities including Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane, amid heightened tensions over immigration policies.
Organizers are calling for an “end to mass migration,” claiming it undermines Australia’s unity. Their messaging cites growing societal division and a perceived increase in “anti-Australian hatred.” A statement on their website urges protesters to “take our country back” and “defend our culture.” The rhetoric has attracted significant attention on social media, with far-right groups promoting the event.
Notably, Thomas Sewell, a self-described neo-Nazi and leader of the National Socialist Network, has indicated his group will participate, stating they have had “positive ongoing contact with the event organizers nationwide.” This involvement raises concerns about the potential for extremist views to dominate the narrative.
Protests are planned in various locations, including:
– Melbourne: Flinders Street Station
– Sydney: Belmore Park in Haymarket
– Brisbane: Roma St Parklands
– Adelaide: Rundle Park
– Canberra: Captain Cook Memorial
– Perth: Supreme Court Gardens
– Hobart: Salamanca Lawns
– Darwin: Civic Centre
Authorities anticipate large turnouts, with Facebook event pages indicating less than 1,500 confirmed attendees for both Melbourne and Sydney. Counter-protests are also expected, raising the stakes for public safety.
The Albanese government has reacted strongly, with Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke condemning the protests as “un-Australian.” He emphasized that there is “no place in our country for people who seek to divide and undermine our social cohesion.” Meanwhile, Opposition leader Sussan Ley has called for the protests to be conducted peacefully, underscoring the importance of respecting diverse opinions while condemning violence and racism.
Police forces nationwide are prepared, with NSW Acting Deputy Police Commissioner Paul McKenna stating that they have worked closely with organizers to ensure a peaceful event. McKenna assured the public that the organizers are committed to a law-abiding demonstration. The Australian Capital Territory Police noted they have “no intelligence” suggesting violence or criminal damage is planned.
As the situation develops throughout the day, authorities will continue to monitor the protests closely. The public is urged to stay informed and exercise caution in the vicinity of protest areas.
Stay tuned for updates as we track this unfolding situation across Australia’s capital cities.
