In Australia, controversial anti-immigration rallies were held today in major cities. Protesters called for an end to what they describe as mass migration. The federal government strongly condemned the rallies. Officials said the protests spread hate and divide communities.
They also warned that some events were linked to neo-Nazi groups. Labor Minister Murray Watt said the rallies were not about social harmony and were promoted by extremists. The March for Australia group has called for no foreign flags at events. Some members have distanced themselves after neo-Nazi Thomas Sewell claimed the rallies as his own.
It remains unclear who is officially organising the protests. Indian community leaders urged migrants to stay indoors for safety. Some migrant workers said they feared being targeted. A large police presence was deployed in cities, with other public events happening at the same time. Counter-protests against racism were also planned.
