Australia: Conservative Political Action Conference to take place in Sydney Oct. 1-2; protest planned

Event

The Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) will take place at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Sydney Oct. 1-2. The event will likely draw thousands of participants to hear from prominent conservative speakers and politicians.

Activist groups Campaign Against Racism and Fascism and Community Action for Rainbow Rights plan to rally during the event. Protesters will gather at ICC, most likely at Darling Harbour, from 13:00 Oct. 1. Hundreds to a few thousand people will probably attend the demonstration. CPAC attendees and/or supporters could hold counterrallies.

Authorities will likely increase security near ICC and surrounding areas; roadblocks are possible. Localized transport disruptions could occur near ICC during the two-day conference. Police will probably monitor the demonstration. While violence is unlikely, minor clashes between opposing groups cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Follow all security personnel instructions. Consider avoiding ICC and surrounding areas in Sydney unless attending CPAC due to possible clashes and transport disruptions. If clashes break out, leave the area immediately. Plan for transport disruptions; use alternative routes to avoid demonstration sites and allow additional time to reach destinations, especially near Darling Harbour.