Tensions flared at Flagstaff Gardens on Sunday as One Nation leader Pauline Hanson addressed an anti-immigration rally that drew several hundred supporters — and a vocal counter-protest.
The “Put Australia First” demonstration, attended by people calling for a “free Australia”, was repeatedly interrupted when anti-racism activists shouted “racist” and “go home Pauline” during Ms Hanson’s speech. One confrontation escalated into a fist fight before police officers intervened.
Despite the disruption, Ms Hanson continued her remarks from a truck converted into a stage, thanking attendees who braved heavy rain earlier in the day. She blamed high immigration for housing pressures, stretched health services and job shortages, arguing that “one and a half million people” had entered the country under the current federal government.
Ms Hanson also confirmed that One Nation will run candidates in next year’s Victorian election, but said she herself would not live in the state, criticising both the Labor and Liberal parties.
The rally followed a march of around 700 supporters carrying Australian and boxing kangaroo flags from Flinders Street Station to Flagstaff Gardens. A significant police presence — including the Public Order Response Team, Mounted Branch and Highway Patrol — aimed to keep the peace as a nearby counter-protest of about 500 people began earlier at the State Library.
Groups including the Whistleblowers, Activists and Communities Alliance (WACA), Students for Palestine LTU and the Campaign Against Fascism supported the counter-rally, accusing Ms Hanson of “decades of punching down” on minority communities.
Police reported only one arrest — a man allegedly found carrying knuckle dusters — while two others were issued with move-on orders. Officers are reviewing CCTV footage after reports of a Nazi symbol display, a thrown drink can and other offensive behaviour. No injuries were recorded, and police are urging witnesses to come forward.
