Melbourne, Australia — A violent attack linked to neo-Nazi groups targeted a First Nations protest camp during a weekend rally, sparking widespread outrage among Indigenous communities and political leaders. The incident occurred at Camp Sovereignty, which is situated at King’s Domain, shortly after participants of an anti-immigration march named “March for Australia” concluded their demonstrations in the city’s central business district.
Footage shared on social media captured disturbing scenes as masked individuals clad in black descended on the camp, spewing insults and physically assaulting attendees. Reports indicate that the aggressors targeted women and defaced a sacred fire along with an Aboriginal flag, wielding makeshift weapons like pipes and poles. Four individuals sustained injuries, including a woman in her 30s who was transported to a hospital for treatment related to upper body trauma.
The First People’s Assembly of Victoria expressed solidarity with the victims, highlighting the importance of Camp Sovereignty in preserving Indigenous culture and advocating for justice. “Our sovereignty is strong, and our collective vision for a better future remains unchanged,” the Assembly stated, firmly denouncing the attack.
First Peoples Victoria described the event as a calculated act of violence aimed at silencing First Nations voices exercising their rights to protest. The organization called on authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and bolster efforts to protect Aboriginal communities in public spaces.
Victoria Police have launched an investigation into the incident, which Police Minister Anthony Carbines labeled as “gutless.” The minister emphasized the urgency of addressing such acts of intimidation and violence. “We will hold those responsible accountable,” Carbines remarked during an interview.
Senator Lidia Thorpe categorized the assault as a hate crime, urging the involvement of federal authorities to ensure a comprehensive investigation by the Australian Federal Police. She expressed that swift actions against the aggressors are necessary to prevent further incidents. “Yesterday’s violent attack must be classified as a neo-Nazi hate crime against Aboriginal people,” she wrote.
While no arrests related to the attack on Camp Sovereignty were made at the scene, police apprehended six individuals in connection with the broader March for Australia protests taking place throughout Melbourne. Authorities continue to request information or video footage from the public to assist in their inquiries.
Similar demonstrations were reported in other Australian cities, where thousands took to the streets, including a gathering in Brisbane, where Indigenous leaders emphasized the history of colonization and its impact on Indigenous communities. As the investigation unfolds, activists stress the need for a united front against racism and violence targeting marginalized groups.