Australia: Anti-lockdown activists plan protests in multiple cities from 12:00 Aug. 21

Event

Activists plan to protest in multiple cities across Australia from 12:00 Aug. 21 to denounce government policies to curb the spread of COVID-19. Organizers have announced the following protest locations:

• Adelaide: Rundle Park

• Brisbane: City Botanic Gardens, Alice Street

• Cairns: Muddy's Northside

• Darwin: Raintree Park

• Melbourne: Corner of Elizabeth and Bourke streets

• Perth: Anzac Memorial, Kings Park

• Sydney: Victoria Park, corner of Broadway and City roads

• Townsville: Strand Rockpool

Activists may also hold protests in other cities. Gatherings are likely at government buildings and public squares. Participation in larger protests may involve several dozen to a few hundred people.

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 during a gathering in Melbourne Aug. 5 and arrested at least 57 people during a similar protest in Sydney, late July. Localized transport disruptions are possible, especially if protesters march along roadways.

Advice

Avoid protests due to possible clashes. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately. Follow all security personnel instructions. Allow additional travel time near protests.