By Andreas Lundberg 
Thousands rallied against immigration across Australia on Sunday, clashing with counter-protesters in cities like Sydney and Melbourne. The March for Australia group, which organized the protests, called for an end to mass migration, claiming it strains communities. The center-left Labor government condemned the rallies, linking them to neo-Nazi groups and accusing them of spreading hate.
In Sydney, 5,000 to 8,000 protesters, many waving Australian flags, gathered near the Sydney Marathon route, where 35,000 runners raced. A counter-rally by the Refugee Action Coalition drew hundreds, with a spokesperson expressing “disgust” at the “far-right agenda” of March for Australia. In Melbourne, riot police reportedly used pepper spray to control crowds, though Victoria Police promised further details later.
Murray Watt, a senior Labor minister, told Sky News the rallies aimed to divide communities and were “organized and promoted” by neo-Nazis. March for Australia did not immediately respond to these allegations. Protester Glenn Allchin in Sydney cited concerns over housing shortages, long hospital waits, and infrastructure strain, demanding a “slowdown” in immigration.
Australia, where half the population is either born overseas or has a parent born overseas, has seen rising right-wing extremism. Recent laws banning Nazi salutes and terror group symbols were introduced following antisemitic attacks since the Israel-Gaza conflict began in October 2023. In Queensland, populist leader Bob Katter attended a rally, days after clashing with a reporter over his Lebanese heritage.
The protests underscore tensions over immigration, with supporters highlighting resource pressures and critics warning of divisive rhetoric. The government’s strong stance reflects ongoing efforts to curb extremist activities amid a polarized debate.
Dale Chaucer 
Jack