Australia: Protests and celebrations to take place nationwide for Australia Day Jan. 26

Event

People across Australia will commemorate Australia Day Jan. 26. Official celebrations typically occur 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 such as Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Darwin, Hobart, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney. 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 cities and towns nationwide. The largest demonstrations at likely to occur at the following locations and times:

• Adelaide: Activists will rally at Victoria Square from 12:30.

• Brisbane: Protesters will assemble at Queens Gardens from 10:00 and march to Musgrave Park.

• Canberra: Supporters will gather Garema Place from 09:30 before marching to Parliament House.

• Darwin: Protesters will assemble at Don Dale Youth Detention Centre at 10:00.

• Hobart: Activists will gather at Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre 10:45 and march to Parliament House Lawns for a rally from 12:00.

• Melbourne: Participants will rally at Victoria Parliament House from 11:00.

• Perth: Supporters will gather at Forrest Chase beginning at 12:00 and march in the city.

• Sydney: Activists will meet at Belmore Park from 10:00 and march to Victoria Park.

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 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.