21 Feb 2023 | 08:02 PM UTC
Australia: Activists plan demonstrations in multiple cities Feb. 23-25
Activists to stage demonstrations in multiple cities in Australia Feb. 23-25. Increased security, disruptions likely; skirmishes possible.
Event
Activists will hold demonstrations in multiple cities across Australia Feb. 23-25 to denounce the upcoming one-year anniversary of the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. Organizers have released the following details concerning specific gatherings:
February 23:
Adelaide, South Australia: Activists to assemble at 17:30 before commencing a rally at 18:00 outside Parliament House.
Sydney, New South Wales: Activists to rally and hold a procession at Martin Place, with a candlelight vigil at St. Mary's Cathedral Square at 17:30.
February 24:
Canberra: Activists to hold a vigil outside the Russian Embassy 11:00-14:00.
Melbourne, Victoria: Activists to hold a prayer vigil at Saints Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church at 18:00 and gather at Federation Square at 19:30.
Sydney, New South Wales: Participants will gather at Sydney Town Hall 17:30-20:30.
February 25:
Brisbane, Queensland: Activists to rally at King George Square 10:00-12:00.
Perth, Western Australia: Activists to rally at Forrest Chase shopping center at 11:30 before marching to an undisclosed location.
Organizers are also planning a rally in Darwin, Northern Territory, but have as yet announced no specific assembly point or date. Additional gatherings are also likely to occur in other urban centers, especially near major government buildings, public squares, parks, and roadways. Participation will vary by location; it remains unclear how many attendees the gatherings may draw.
Authorities will likely deploy to monitor the gatherings as a precaution. Security personnel may cordon off certain demonstration sites, particularly near government buildings. Activists may march along roadways, prompting localized transport disruptions. Localized business disruptions are possible through Feb. 25.
Advice
Avoid all rallies as a standard security precaution. If skirmishes occur nearby, depart the area immediately. Plan for localized transport disruptions. Use alternative routes to circumvent protest locations. Plan accordingly for possible localized business disruptions. Heed all official security and transport advisories.
