Neo-Nazis, politicians take part in Australia anti-immigration protest
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Thousands rallied across Australia under the March for Australia banner in anti-immigration protests involving neo-Nazis, far-right groups, and politicians like Pauline Hanson.
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An injured protester reacts during a "March for Australia" anti-immigration rally in Melbourne on August 31, 2025. (William WEST / AFP)
Thousands of people took part in March for Australia rallies across the country on Sunday, with large crowds gathering in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Canberra, Adelaide, and Townsville. The demonstrations, branded as an anti-immigration protest, were condemned by government officials as divisive and racist.
In Melbourne, about 5,000 people gathered outside Flinders Street station carrying flags and placards with anti-immigration slogans. Police estimated similar turnouts across other major cities, with South Australia police putting the Adelaide rally’s attendance at around 15,000.
The protests drew a controversial mix of groups, including neo-Nazi figures, anti-lockdown activists, and far-right fringe movements. In Melbourne, Thomas Sewell, a known neo-Nazi, told the crowd: “If we do not stop immigration, then our death is certain.”
Prominent politicians also joined the rallies. One Nation leader Pauline Hanson, Senator Malcolm Roberts, and federal MP Bob Katter attended events in Canberra and Townsville. Their presence sparked criticism, with Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan saying those who “walk with Nazis” were undermining multiculturalism.
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Counter-protests, clashes with police
In Melbourne, a counter-protest formed near the State Library of Victoria, merging with the weekly pro-Palestine rally. Police created multiple barriers, including officers on horseback, to keep the groups apart. Tensions escalated when bottles and cans were thrown, leading to police deploying pepper spray.
Victoria Police confirmed six arrests on charges including assaulting police, attempted robbery, and resisting arrest. Two officers were injured but not hospitalized. Authorities used OC spray, batons, and public order munitions to prevent further violence.
Similar counter-demonstrations took place in Brisbane, Adelaide, and Canberra. In Brisbane, First Nations activist Wayne Wharton confronted protesters, telling them: “You invaded this country, you stole the land.”
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Political reactions to nationwide demonstrations
The rallies prompted widespread condemnation. Federal Labor minister Murray Watt denounced the protests as attempts to spread hate and divide communities, while Opposition Leader Sussan Ley urged Australians to reject violence and racism.
Shadow attorney general Julian Leeser warned that those attending should be cautious about aligning with extremist groups, citing anti-Indian and antisemitic undertones in some protest material.
Despite the tensions, police across several states reported that most crowds eventually dispersed peacefully.
