Hundreds of Australians are preparing to participate in organised anti-immigration demonstrations this weekend, with event coordinators strongly denying any connections to neo-Nazi groups.
Weekend Protests and Organiser Claims
The Put Australia First movement has arranged two major gatherings: one in Sydney on Saturday and another in Melbourne on Sunday. The group states its primary objectives include pressuring the government on immigration policy changes, opposing mandatory digital identification systems, protecting freedom of speech, and advocating for affordable energy solutions.
Led by prominent anti-lockdown campaigner Monica Smit and other figures from the 'freedom' movement, the organisation promotes itself as championing Australian values above all else. Their official website declares: "Australians want to be put first. They want to be heard and seen."
The group emphasises its commitment to providing "a safe and reliable platform to stand up for Australia's prosperity and culture" through dedicated spokespeople ensuring their message remains consistent and unavoidable.
Safety Measures and Speaker Controversies
Organisers have highlighted their extensive experience in event management, with particular focus on safety protocols and operational transparency. Speakers are announced at least two weeks before each event, providing potential attendees with confidence in the rally's organisation.
In a radio interview with 2GB's Ben Fordham, Ms Smit explicitly distanced the upcoming marches from August's controversial protests, which turned violent and featured prominent neo-Nazi participation. She assured listeners that the weekend events would have "zero neo-Nazi involvement" and that individuals associated with extremist organisations were not welcome.
When questioned about guaranteeing a neo-Nazi-free environment, Smit responded unequivocally: "Absolutely." While acknowledging her support for freedom of speech principles, she criticised previous events where "three neo-Nazis are microphoned up and ready to go, with cameras on them" as misleading to the public.
Political Withdrawals and International Speakers
The rallies have experienced significant developments in their speaker lineup. Controversial Liberal Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price has withdrawn as the headline speaker for the Sydney event, citing personal commitments, though Smit confirmed the politician maintains support for the group's objectives.
Among confirmed speakers is British far-right activist Tommy Robinson, who will address attendees via video link. The programme also includes former One Nation candidate Stuart Bonds and professional cage-fighter turned anti-lockdown campaigner Nick Patterson.
Ms Smit defended the majority of previous protest participants, stating that August rally attendees held "genuine, realistic and reasonable concerns" that were overshadowed when neo-Nazis were permitted to speak. She described chants like "send them home" and "shut the gates" as excessive, clarifying that Put Australia First seeks parliamentary discussion and reform rather than mass deportations.
The Sydney demonstration will convene at Belmore Park at midday on Saturday, marching toward Town Hall, while Melbourne participants will gather at Flinders Street Station on Sunday before proceeding to Flagstaff Gardens.
