Australia: Demonstration planned in central Melbourne from 1200 Jan. 16

Event

The Convoy Liberation civil organization plans to hold a march in central Melbourne, Victoria, Jan. 16. Participants intend to denounce the mainstream media’s coverage of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Organizers plan to gather outside the Channel 7 building in the Docklands area at 1200 before marching to other media offices. Potential march destinations including offices for The Age newspaper, 9 News station, and the headquarters of the Herald Sun newspaper, which are all located in central Melbourne. The protesters have not announced a march route, but the procession will likely move along roads in the city center. Participation in the march will likely be between dozens and a couple of hundred people, though attendance will likely be affected by ongoing COVID-19 gathering restrictions.

Security personnel will almost certainly monitor the procession and may enforce COVID-19 gathering restrictions. While clashes are unlikely, isolated skirmishes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out. Localized transport disruptions are probable along and near roads used for the march.

Advice

Avoid the protest due to possible skirmishes. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately. Heed all security personnel instructions. Monitor local news sources for updates on the march route, as organizers may not announce details in advance. Allow additional travel time near the procession.