21 Jan 2021 | 05:23 AM UTC
Australia: Protests and celebrations to take place likely nationwide for Australia Day Jan. 26
Australia Day protests and celebrations to take place nationwide Jan. 26. Increased security, localized disruptions likely.
Event
Events to celebrate Australia Day will take place across the country Jan. 26. Official celebrations typically take place in the morning; however, local governments and various civic groups will hold Australia Day events throughout the day. Planned commemorative events include picnics, parades, and fireworks displays. The largest events are likely in major cities, though coronavirus disease (COVID-19) gathering restrictions are likely to limit mass celebrations. Increased security measures, crowd control barriers, and localized road closures are likely near official events and other traditional celebrations.
Indigenous groups and their supporters plan to hold "Invasion Day" rallies in major cities nationwide. Organizers have released details for demonstrations at the following locations and times:
Adelaide: Activists will gather at Victoria Square and march to Parliament House and back 1100-1300.
Brisbane: Flag raising ceremony will occur at Musgrave Park at 0800. Protesters will gather at Queens Garden at 1000 and start marching to Musgrave Park from 1030.
Darwin: Rally to take place at Civic Park from 0930.
Hobart: Gathering planned at Parliament House Gardens from 1145.
Melbourne: Dawn service planned at Kings Domain Resting place at 0500. Rally to take place at Parliament House from 1030.
Perth: Demonstration planned at Forest Place from 1300.
Sydney: Rally to take place at The Domain starting at 0900.
Additional protests are likely at other locations across Australia. Participation in demonstrations will likely vary by location, ranging from several hundred to several thousand people. Increased police deployments and localized traffic disruptions are likely near rally sites. Indigenous groups and activists could attempt to stage protests to disrupt mainstream Australia Day commemorations in some areas. Most events will remain mostly peaceful; however, confrontations between rival protest groups remain possible.
Advice
Exercise caution near all protest sites and major celebrations. Plan for minor traffic detours on roads near the planned demonstrations and large commemorative events. Consider alternative travel routes. Monitor local media for updated information about security and road conditions. Check public transit schedules for possible service changes.
