Australia condemns Sydney anti-immigration rally linked to neo-Nazis as demonstrations planned across the country
Australia’s centre-left government condemned the March For Australia rally held in Sydney on Sunday, saying the event sought to spread hate and had links to neo-Nazis. The protest was one of several anti-immigration demonstrations announced for state and regional capitals nationwide.
Sydney’s turnout was sizable, with estimates ranging from 5,000 to 8,000 people, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. In contrast, a counter-rally organized by the Refugee Action Coalition gathered near the Sydney march, with organizers stating that hundreds attended. A coalition spokesperson said the counter-protest demonstrated the community’s disgust and anger with the far-right agenda of March For Australia.
The rally was also echoed in Melbourne, where a large march was visible in central areas of the city, as aerial footage aired by ABC showed. The protests come amid broader concern in Australia about rising far-right extremism and incidents linked to such movements, alongside ongoing debates about immigration and national identity in a diverse society.
Organisers of March For Australia did not immediately respond to requests for comment about the neo-Nazi claims surrounding the event. The government’s stance has been to condemn intolerance and to emphasize the country’s commitment to a tolerant, multicultural society where hate speech and hate-based organizing are not tolerated.
The discourse around the protests has intersected with other political tensions in Australia. Veteran lawmaker Bob Katter, founder of Katter’s Australian Party, drew attention at a press conference on Thursday when questioned about attending the March For Australia. He raised his fist and, in remarks that drew scrutiny, said he had previously punched people who mentioned his Lebanese heritage.
Context from recent weeks shows Australia grappling with a reported rise in antisocial and hate-driven activity, including antisemitic graffiti and other attacks that have spurred police taskforces and government responses. While those incidents are separate from the immigration rally, they contribute to a climate in which authorities are increasingly vigilant about hate and extremism.
What to watch next
– Police and security services are likely to monitor such demonstrations closely, with counter-protests and public safety a continuing priority.
– The government and community groups may push for additional assessments of extremism and hate speech, along with efforts to bolster inclusivity and protect minority communities.
– Public dialogue around immigration and national unity is likely to remain a point of political contention, with authorities stressing the importance of condemning hate while safeguarding free expression.
Summary
The Sydney rally highlights ongoing tensions around immigration and national identity in a diverse Australia, drawing thousands of participants, counter-protests, and sharp political commentary. Authorities have condemned the event and pledged vigilance against hate, while other capitals prepare for similar demonstrations. The episode underscores a broader societal effort to balance free speech with protections against hate and extremism, and to reaffirm commitment to an inclusive Australian community.
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