Anti-mass immigration rallies in Melbourne turn violent as police assaulted by demonstrators

Police officers have been injured after clashing with protestors countering anti-mass immigration demonstrations in Melbourne.

Riot police were deployed near the steps of the state’s parliament, in Melbourne’s CBD, on Sunday as “March for Australia” protesters were met with counter protestors on Sunday.

7NEWS footage shows officers stationed between both groups as tensions rose, leading to capsicum spray being deployed on counter protestors.

Victoria Police said in a statement that a “small group of counter protestors began to throw projectiles” about 12.30pm, injuring two officers.

“They include a female sergeant, who is suspected to have sustained a broken hand, while the other male senior constable sustained a non-life-threatening laceration to their lower leg,” the statement reads.

“Other officers have been struck by projectiles with such force that their protective shields have been cracked.

“Whilst we respect the right for individuals to protest lawfully, we will not tolerate the behaviour of those who break the law.”

Police confirmed the arrest of one man, while investigations have been launched to identify others involved.

Commander Wayne Cheeseman, North West Metro region, said police “make no apologies” for the level of force used.

“Police do not attend protests with the aim of using force, but it is always in response to the actions of protestors whether it be violence between different groups, or towards officers,” he told the media on Sunday afternoon.

“We want our CBD to be a place where families can safely come for the day, that businesses can operate on weekends without hassle.

“This type of behaviour impacts the broader Melbourne and Victorian community, and we are sick of it.”

He noted that while there have been protests where force isn’t needed because “the protest is conducted lawfully and peacefully”, officers have reported being assaulted and threatened.

“Officers working at protests have reported being threatened, hit with objects such as bottles and rocks, and being grabbed, pushed or held. There were four occasions in 2024 where protestors spat saliva or blood at officers,” Commander Cheeseman said.

March for Australia demonstrators were also tangled up with police on nearby Spring St, where officers used capsicum spray, rubber bullets and stun grenades.

March for Australia’s Facebook page said the demonstration was spurred on because Australia is “changing in ways most of us never agreed to”.

“People are waking up to a country they barely recognise,” the page reads.

“Endless migration, weak leadership, and political cowardice have brought us here, and it’s time to put a stop to it.”

Victoria police are expected to speak to the media at 3.30pm.

It follows inaugural March for Australia protest in August, which featured far-right extremists and descended into ugly brawls.

Similar demonstrations across Australia have also featured a heavy police presence, with counter protests in Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Perth and Sydney.

ACT Police confirmed two people were arrested after a clash between opposing groups. They were released soon after under exclusion orders.

More to come ...