05 Apr 2023 | 02:26 AM UTC
Australia: Unionized workers holding protest march in central Melbourne, Victoria, April 5
Activists protesting in central Melbourne, Australia, April 5. Increased security, localized disruptions reported. Skirmishes possible.
Event
Members of the Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU) are rallying in central Melbourne as of the morning of April 5 to demand wage hikes and other welfare measures. A few thousand workers are marching from Trades Hall Place along Victoria Street to the Fair Work Commission on Exhibition Street. Authorities have advised commuters to consider avoiding roads in the central business district (CBD) area.
Police have deployed to monitor the demonstration. Road closures and traffic diversions are possible in the coming hours. Additional transport disruptions may occur if protesters block roads. Minor skirmishes may occur if activists attempt to breach security cordons or if security personnel forcibly disperse unruly crowds.
Advice
Avoid all protests as a routine security precaution. Plan for localized transport disruptions. Use alternative routes to circumvent protest locations. Heed all official security and transport advisories.