06 Aug 2020 | 02:24 PM UTC
Australia: Demonstrators to gather in Brisbane August 8
Demonstrators set to gather at Brisbane’s Story Bridge on August 8 to denounce the alleged poor treatment of refugees; avoid all gatherings as a precaution
Event
Demonstrators are planning to gather at Story Bridge in Brisbane (Queensland) on Saturday, August 8. The protest is taking place to denounce the alleged poor treatment of refugees, and hundreds of thousands of people could participate in the demonstration. Authorities are reportedly looking at ways to prevent the action from taking place over concerns relating to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19), and police have expressed concerns over resources being stretched.
Localized disruption is likely in the vicinity of the demonstration, along with a heightened security presence. Demonstrations are possible on Story Bridge and in the surrounding vicinity.
Context
Around 120 refugees and asylum seekers are currently detained in Kangaroo Point Motel, and the organizers of Saturday's rally, Refugee Action Collective Queensland and Refugee Solidarity Brisbane/Meanjin, have reportedly been threatening to demonstrate on Story Bridge for weeks.
Advice
Those in Brisbane are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests and political gatherings, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.
