Violent Clashes Erupt Across Australia During Second Anti-Immigration March

Violence erupted in Melbourne's CBD during the second nationwide "March for Australia" anti-mass immigration rally, with police deploying capsicum spray, tear gas, stun grenades, and rubber bullets to control clashes between the anti-immigration protesters and counter-protesters opposing racism. Riot police established barricades to separate the two groups near Parliament House and throughout the city, resulting in multiple scuffles, arrests, and injuries including to police officers. The anti-immigration rally, which drew thousands including some far-right extremists, marched with Australian flags and chants, while counter-demonstrators carried signs condemning neo-Nazis and fascism, with some burning the Australian flag. Authorities faced hostility as some protesters threw missiles such as eggs and glass containers at officers. Despite the unrest, government officials described Melbourne's CBD as safe and vibrant, emphasizing the right to protest when conducted safely. Similar protests and counter-protests took place across other Australian cities including Sydney, Brisbane, Canberra, Perth, and Adelaide, reflecting ongoing national tensions over immigration policies.