Australia: Activists plan to demonstrate in central Melbourne the evening of Aug. 11

Event

Activists plan to protest in central Melbourne the evening of Aug. 11 to denounce the one-week extension of enhanced COVID-19 restrictions in the city. Social media posts suggest participants plan to gather at Flinders Street Station from 19:00 before commencing a march; specific details on the march route remain unclear. Dozens to hundreds of people could participate in the demonstration.

Security personnel will likely monitor the protest and may attempt to enforce COVID-19 gathering restrictions. Clashes between protesters and police are possible; security forces clashed with anti-lockdown demonstrators in a related gathering Aug. 5. Localized transport disruptions are possible, especially if protesters march along roadways.

Advice

Avoid the protest due to possible violence. If clashes break out, leave the area immediately. Follow all security personnel instructions. Allow additional travel time in the area.