Anti-immigration rally in Melbourne turns violent after man allegedly performs Nazi salute at counter-protesters
Police were forced to break apart two fighting protesters during a right-wing demonstration.
Melbourne CBD was full of anti-immigration protesters on Sunday as hundreds gathered for the ‘March for Australia’ rally.
Several opposing groups – Unite Against Racism Victoria, Unionists for Refugees and the Refugee Action Collective – also headed to the city to clash with rally attendees.
Tensions boiled over when a protester reached out and flicked a man’s One Nation hat off his head after he appeared to perform a Nazi salute.
The One Nation supporter immediately attempted to punch the protester’s face, prompting police to quickly intervene.
Officers wrestled the One Nation supporter to the ground while dozens more police swarmed the area.
Victoria Police confirmed a 64-year-old man was arrested and released pending summons
‘It’s alleged the Wantirna man assaulted another man at the intersection of Collins and Swanston streets about 1.25pm,’ it said in a statement.
Hundreds gathered for the ‘March for Australia’ rally in Melbourne on Sunday
Right-wing protesters clashed with opposing groups
Dozens of officers monitored the event with Victoria Police confirming one arrest
Demonstrators called for the government to lower immigration caps
‘There were no reports of injuries.
‘The man is alleged to have earlier performed a Nazi salute.’
Anyone with information was urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
Demonstrators on Sunday called for the government to lower net overseas migration.
Many blamed post-pandemic housing shortages and higher living prices on the record number of people who moved to Australia in that time.
One Nation merchandise was prominent at the event with its bright orange shirts and hats standing out in the crowd.
The party has been praised by anti-immigration groups for its plans to drastically cut migration if elected into power, despite warnings the cuts would be disastrous for the economy and trigger labour shortages.
Photos showed hundreds of protesters marching through the CBD and posing outside Flinders Street Station.
No serious injuries were reported following the protest
The large group marched through the CBD and gathered outside Flinders Street Station
Demonstrators wore One Nation merchandise and carried Australian flags
Several carried Australian flags and gathered behind a large banner reading: ‘Save the nation, stop immigration.
‘It’s time for a conversation Australia!’
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