Govind Tekale
Nationwide anti-immigration rallies called “March for Australia” are set to take place this Sunday, August 31, 2025, in major cities across the country, sparking concerns about public safety and raising tensions between different communities. The rallies, promoted as peaceful gatherings against “mass migration,” have drawn condemnation from federal ministers and warnings from migrant communities about potential safety risks.
“There is no place in our country for people who seek to divide and undermine our social cohesion,” said Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke. “Nothing could be less Australian.” Multicultural Affairs Minister Anne Aly defended Australia’s diversity, saying “multiculturalism is an integral and valued part of Australia’s national identity.”
Media investigations have linked some rally organizers to white nationalist content and far-right groups. An ABC Verify investigation found evidence of organizers sharing white supremacist posts and pro-Nazi memes online. One Sydney organizer was recorded advocating for violence similar to the 2005 Cronulla riots, saying “we need violence,” though she later apologized for the comments.
Rally organizers have tried to distance themselves from extremist groups. Official promotional materials specify “no foreign flags” at the events, calling instead for a “sea of red and blue” with Australian and Eureka flags only. The protests come amid recent changes to Australia’s immigration policy. The federal government has increased the international student cap by 9% to 295,000 for next year, while also implementing stricter visa rules. The base fee for student visas rose to AUD 2,000 from July 2025, with tighter financial and English-language requirements.
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Community safety concerns have prompted warnings within immigrant communities. Several community leaders and diaspora influencers have advised people to stay home on Sunday. The Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils of Australia (FECCA) has warned against singling out communities and urged rejection of racist messaging.
Law enforcement agencies are preparing for potential confrontations. Victoria Police are planning a significant operational response in Melbourne. They used designated-area powers on August 16, but no public notice confirms such powers for August 31. Other state police forces have announced increased presence for the day.
Counter-protests are also being organized by anti-fascist groups who aim to oppose racism and white supremacy. The ACT Human Rights Commission has reminded the public that racial vilification is illegal and encouraged reporting of any incidents.
As tensions build, MP Bob Katter’s public support for the Brisbane rally sparked controversy when he threatened to punch a journalist who questioned him about his Lebanese heritage during a press conference.
With both the rallies and counter-protests planned for this weekend, authorities are urging peaceful demonstrations while preparing for possible escalations in what has become a deeply divisive national conversation about immigration, identity, and Australia’s future.
