06 Dec 2023 | 02:36 AM UTC
Australia: Environmental activists plan to demonstrate in Melbourne through Dec. 10
Environmental activists plan to demonstrate in Melbourne, Australia, through Dec. 10. Increased security, transport disruptions likely.
Environmental activists affiliated with the Extinction Rebellion (XR) movement plan to stage demonstrations in Melbourne through Dec. 10. Participants intend to hold marches and block traffic in Melbourne's central business district (CBD) during the morning and evening rush hour. Related gatherings resulted in traffic disruptions between Flinders and King streets the morning of Dec. 6. Organizers have called for demonstrations Dec. 6 outside Member of Parliament (MP) Peter Khalil's office along Sydney Road in the Coburg area from 14:00 and the State Library Victoria from 17:15; they have yet to disclose information regarding other protests.
Dozens to a few hundred people could participate in each demonstration. Activists may plan additional rallies at short notice. Popular protest venues include Federation Square, Flinders Street, Parliament House, and State Library Victoria. Gatherings are also possible at public parks, prominent squares, major thoroughfares, and outside government buildings.
Authorities will likely monitor the events and may attempt to disperse the gatherings if they are especially disruptive. Isolated minor scuffles between activists and police are possible. Planned marches and roadblocks will likely prompt localized transport disruptions in Melbourne CBD.
Avoid protests as a precaution. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Seek alternative routes to circumvent known gathering locations and allow additional time to reach destinations if operating in Melbourne through Dec. 10. Monitor local media for updated information about security and road conditions. Check public transit schedules for possible service changes. Heed all security and traffic advisories.
