One Nation leader Pauline Hanson took center stage at an anti-immigration rally in Melbourne’s Central Business District on Sunday, delivering a speech at Flagstaff Gardens during the Put Australia First protest. Her address was met with both support and opposition, highlighting the ongoing debate over immigration policies in Australia.
As Hanson spoke, a small group of counter-protesters attempted to disrupt the event using a loudspeaker. The situation quickly escalated as they were forcibly removed by other protesters and police officers. Despite the interruption, Hanson urged the crowd to remain peaceful and continued her speech.
“I’m not from Victoria and, to tell you the truth, I wouldn’t move to Victoria,” Hanson remarked. “I’ll stay in Queensland, thank you very much. We have our problems there, but when I see what the Labor Party has done to this state… and the Liberals have not been much better. They don’t fight. I see it all the time.”
Political Context and Recent Controversies
Hanson assured attendees that One Nation intends to field candidates in the upcoming Victorian election, signaling the party’s commitment to expanding its influence in the region. Her speech comes on the heels of a recent controversy where she wore a burqa in the Senate, leading to a seven-day suspension.
Meanwhile, counter-protesters had gathered earlier at the State Library on Swanston Street to voice their opposition to the anti-immigration rally. This gathering is part of a broader movement challenging the rhetoric and policies advocated by groups like Put Australia First.
Heightened Security and Police Powers
The rallies coincided with the introduction of new powers for Victoria Police, allowing them to conduct on-the-spot searches for prohibited weapons. These expanded powers, which will remain in force until May 29, 2026, were put to the test outside the State Library during the counter-protest.
Officers stopped a man wearing a grey hoodie to search his bag, prompting chants from the crowd, “No justice, no ban. No racist police.” The search concluded without incident, as the man’s bag was deemed safe.
Under the new declaration, officers can perform pat-down or wand searches without a warrant and are authorized to search vehicles and compel individuals to remove face coverings in designated areas of the CBD, Southbank, and Docklands.
Historical Parallels and Expert Opinions
This development follows a pattern of heightened security measures in response to public demonstrations. Similar strategies have been employed in other parts of the world, often sparking debates about civil liberties versus public safety.
According to Dr. Emily Rogers, a political analyst at the University of Melbourne, “The introduction of such powers is a double-edged sword. While they aim to maintain public order, they also risk infringing on individual rights, which can exacerbate tensions rather than alleviate them.”
Historically, Australia has grappled with its immigration policies, balancing economic needs with social cohesion. The current climate reflects a resurgence of these debates, amplified by global migration trends and domestic political shifts.
Looking Ahead
The events in Melbourne underscore the complexities of managing public demonstrations in a democratic society. As the Victorian election approaches, the discourse around immigration and national identity is likely to intensify, with parties like One Nation seeking to capitalize on these sentiments.
The implications of enhanced police powers will also be closely monitored, as both supporters and critics evaluate their impact on public safety and civil liberties. As the situation evolves, the dialogue between policymakers, law enforcement, and the public will be crucial in shaping the future of Australia’s approach to immigration and public order.
