Protests spark defacement of monuments across Australia

In the lead-up to Australia Day, protests supporting Aboriginal rights intensified, resulting in the vandalism of several historic statues in Melbourne and Sydney. A statue of colonist John Batman was sawn in half, while a World War One memorial was defaced with red paint and the phrase 'land back.' Additionally, a statue of Captain James Cook in Sydney was vandalized for the second consecutive year, receiving similar treatment of red paint and physical damage. These acts have sparked a debate about the significance of Australia Day, which many Indigenous Australians view as a day of mourning due to its association with colonization. Local leaders expressed mixed feelings, with some condemning the vandalism as counterproductive to reconciliation, while others argue the statues symbolize ongoing colonial impacts. As protests unfolded, tens of thousands participated in various events across the country, reflecting a growing movement for recognition and justice for Indigenous Australians.