UPDATE: Experts have just debunked false claims fueling mass anti-immigration protests in Australia, as police brace for significant demonstrations in Sydney and Melbourne this weekend. A new report from the Australian National University reveals how misleading data has been misused by neo-Nazi and white supremacist groups to falsely portray immigration as “out of control.”
Authorities are on high alert as protests organized by anti-vaccine activist Monica Smith are scheduled for Saturday, August 19, 2023, in Sydney, with another rally set for Sunday, August 20, 2023, in Melbourne. Controversial British far-right figure Tommy Robinson is expected to address participants via video link, despite prior bans from social media platforms due to hate speech violations.
According to co-authors Emeritus Professor Peter McDonald and Alan Gamlen, the data cited by these groups does not accurately reflect migration trends. “The dataset has been used consistently by anti-immigration activists to give an inflated sense of the numbers,” Professor Gamlen stated. The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has already warned that this data primarily tracks traveler movements and not migration.
While net overseas migration figures rose post-pandemic, they have been declining sharply since September 2023, with many Australians now urged to focus on accurate statistics. “Saying immigration is out of control when that is not the case is divisive and potentially damaging to social cohesion,” warned Professor Gamlen.
In response to the anticipated protests, NSW Police Minister Yasmin Catley confirmed a significant police presence in Sydney’s CBD on Saturday, emphasizing that “NSW is a strong, multicultural society – we will not tolerate hate on our streets.” A counter-protest is also being organized to promote acceptance, spearheaded by the Refugee Action Coalition. Spokesman Ian Rintoul stressed the importance of community mobilization against hate, stating, “Migrants are welcome, and we must get the Nazis and the racists off our streets.”
As the situation develops, authorities are preparing for heightened tensions and increased operations in both cities. With emotions running high and the potential for clashes, many Australians are closely monitoring this urgent situation. Stay tuned for live updates as the rallies unfold.
