Thousands Attend Australian Anti-Immigration Protests Across Major Cities
Thousands of Australians have taken to the streets in recent days to participate in Australian anti immigration protests, which were organized under the banner of the ‘March for Australia’ movement. The rallies, which took place in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane, Perth, and other cities, drew tens of thousands of demonstrators. While supporters claim the marches were about unity and national values, government officials have condemned them as far-right activism and a dangerous attempt to spread hate and division.
Overview of the Protests
The rallies were marked by both large turnouts and significant counter-demonstrations. According to estimates, Sydney saw between 5,000 and 8,000 attendees, Melbourne had around 5,000, and Adelaide witnessed one of the largest gatherings with approximately 15,000 people, including counter-protesters. Brisbane’s protest at Roma Street Parklands drew thousands, while Perth and Adelaide also experienced strong turnouts. Across the country, more than 45,000 people were involved in anti immigration protests Australia-wide, according to updated national figures.
Sydney Protest: A Heated Rally
The Sydney protest attracted a crowd of around 5,000 to 8,000 people. Several opposition politicians, including One Nation senator Pauline Hanson, addressed the crowd. Despite being largely peaceful, police confirmed minor clashes and a few arrests. Hundreds of officers were deployed across the city to manage the demonstrations. This protest Sydney event was among the most closely monitored, with national and international media reporting live updates.
Melbourne Protest: Clashes with Counter-Demonstrators
In Melbourne, around 5,000 people gathered on the steps of Parliament House for the march. Among the speakers was Thomas Sewell, a known neo-Nazi and figurehead of the National Socialist Network. His presence drew widespread condemnation. The Melbourne protest today turned tense as anti immigration protest Melbourne marchers clashed with counter-demonstrators, including a separate pro-Palestine rally nearby. Police intervened using pepper spray, baton rounds, and other public order tactics. The Melbourne news media covered the clashes extensively, with images of police lines and protesters flooding national outlets.
Adelaide Protest: One of the Largest Gatherings
Adelaide’s protest was among the largest of the August 31 protest events. Around 15,000 people were present, split between marchers and counter-demonstrators. Local police described the protest Adelaide turnout as ‘generally well-behaved,’ though tensions remained visible. Placards showing support for Dezi Freeman, a conspiracy theorist accused of killing two police officers, were spotted in Adelaide and Brisbane, drawing heavy criticism.
Brisbane Protest: Roma Street Parklands Gathering
Thousands of people assembled at Roma Street Parklands for the Brisbane protest today. The march for Australia Brisbane rally drew a diverse crowd, including far-right groups, anti-lockdown campaigners, and ordinary citizens concerned about issues such as housing, traffic, and wages. Placards in support of Dezi Freeman were also seen here. The Brisbane news media reported that, while most of the crowd was peaceful, police were on high alert.
Perth Protest and Other Rallies
In Perth, several thousand people joined the march for Australia Perth demonstration, making it one of the significant turnouts in Western Australia. Though smaller than rallies in Sydney or Adelaide, the protest Perth event showed that anti immigration protests are not confined to the eastern states. Adelaide, Brisbane, and Perth collectively underscored the nationwide nature of the movement.
Political Involvement and Leaders
Several political figures were involved in the rallies. Pauline Hanson, leader of the One Nation party, was a prominent speaker in Sydney. Meanwhile, Bob Katter, a federal MP, expressed support for the cause. Thomas Sewell, also known as Tom Sewell, played a significant role in Melbourne, furthering concerns about the rallies being linked to extremist groups like the National Socialist Network. Their participation drew sharp rebukes from mainstream politicians and commentators.
Government Response: Strong Condemnation
The Australian government has strongly condemned the anti immigration protests. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke declared that there is no place for hate in Australia. Dr Anne Aly, Minister for Multicultural Affairs, reinforced the message by stating that the rallies seek to divide Australians and intimidate migrant communities. Agriculture Minister Murray Watt and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also condemned the rallies, describing them as un-Australian. According to news Australia reports, the government has pledged to monitor extremist groups more closely following the protests.
Reasons Behind the March for Australia
The March for Australia website claims the protests were not only about immigration but also about issues such as housing shortages, wages, environmental destruction, traffic congestion, hospitals, crime, and infrastructure. The organizers argue that mass migration has strained Australia’s social and economic systems. However, critics argue that the messaging around immigration protest events is racially charged and provides cover for extremist recruitment.
Comparison of Protests by City
| City | Estimated Crowd | Key Figures / Speakers | Incidents |
| Sydney | 5,000–8,000 | Pauline Hanson | Minor clashes, arrests |
| Melbourne | Around 5,000 | Thomas Sewell | Clashes, police used pepper spray |
| Adelaide | Around 15,000 | Local leaders, mixed groups | Generally well-behaved, placards for Freeman |
| Brisbane | Thousands | Various speakers | Peaceful, Freeman placards spotted |
| Perth | Several thousand | Local activists | Peaceful |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Australian anti immigration protests?
They are rallies held across Australia under the ‘March for Australia’ banner, focusing on immigration and national identity issues.
Who is Thomas Sewell?
Thomas Sewell is a known neo-Nazi linked to the National Socialist Network, who spoke at the Melbourne protest.
How many people attended the protests?
More than 45,000 people nationwide across Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane, and Perth.
Were there clashes at the protests?
Yes. Melbourne saw violent clashes and police intervention. Sydney experienced minor incidents, while Adelaide and Brisbane were mostly peaceful.
Did politicians support the rallies?
Yes, Pauline Hanson and Bob Katter expressed support, while government ministers and the Prime Minister condemned them.
What issues were raised besides immigration?
Organizers also mentioned housing, wages, traffic, hospitals, crime, and infrastructure as concerns.
What was the government’s response?
The government strongly condemned the rallies, calling them divisive and un-Australian.
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The Australian anti immigration protests of August 31 drew tens of thousands across major cities, from Sydney and Melbourne to Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth. While organizers insisted the rallies were about unity and national issues, the heavy involvement of extremist figures and far-right activists raised deep concerns. Government leaders, including the Prime Minister, strongly condemned the protests, labeling them divisive and dangerous. As Australia debates its future direction, these events highlight the tensions between freedom of expression and the rise of far-right extremism in the country.
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