Thousands of Australians have turned out for anti-immigration rallies across the country that were condemned by the government as having far-right links and 'spreading hate'.
The 'March for Australia' rallies took place in Sydney, Melbourne, and other major cities, where several clashes occurred as marchers were met with counter demonstrations.
Notable figures from opposition parties, including One Nation senator Pauline Hanson and federal MP Bob Katter, joined the protests.
Amid a growing climate of right-wing extremism, Australia recently made the Nazi salute punishable by a mandatory prison term.
In Sydney, up to 8,000 rallied according to ABC Australia, while police reported no significant incidents despite the deployment of hundreds of officers.
In Melbourne, tensions escalated as some protesters clashed with attendees of a separate pro-Palestine rally, where known neo-Nazi Thomas Sewell spoke.
The Adelaide rally featured around 15,000 participants and was reportedly well-behaved overall.
Some demonstrators showcased signs supporting Dezi Freeman, a controversial figure now wanted for the alleged shooting of two police officers, highlighting the complex dynamics of the gathering.
The marches were supported by a mix of opposition politicians, extremist figures, and anti-lockdown activists emerging from the pandemic's protests.
The 'March for Australia' website criticized policies that they believe have divided the country's unity, linking mass migration to various societal concerns like jobs, housing, and community integrity.
Government officials reiterated their stance against these rallies, emphasizing that they stand with Australia's multicultural identity and will not tolerate hateful rhetoric.
Minister of Home Affairs Tony Burke stated, 'We stand with modern Australia against these rallies – nothing could be less Australian.' Meanwhile, Dr. Anne Aly, Minister for Multicultural Affairs, stressed that racism and ethnocentrism have no place in the country.
