Anti-Immigration Rally Descends Into Chaos
One Nation leader Pauline Hanson has delivered a provocative speech demanding that new immigrants pledge undivided loyalty to Australia, threatening to personally escort disloyal migrants to the airport. The controversial address occurred during Sunday's 'Put Australia First' rally in Melbourne, which saw violent clashes between supporters and counter-protesters that required riot police intervention.
Hanson's Fiery Ultimatum on Immigration
Speaking through driving rain to a crowd waving Australian flags and boxing kangaroo banners, Hanson declared immigration as the biggest issue facing Australia. She blasted the Albanese government's record, stating: Under this government, we brought in over 1.5 million people into the country. That's why your housing has increased. That's why your health services have slackened. That's why you're having trouble finding jobs.
The senator branded Australia's immigration system nothing but a Ponzi scheme, accusing the government of using migrant numbers to prop up tax revenue while ordinary Australians suffer housing crises and inadequate public services.
Loyalty Pledge and Political Ambitions
Hanson's most explosive comments came when she issued her loyalty ultimatum to new Australians, drawing thunderous applause from supporters. I welcome you to this country as long as you give this country your undivided loyalty, she declared. If you don't, I'll be the first one to take you to the airport and put you on a plane.
Despite the strong rhetoric, Hanson insisted she wasn't anti-migrant, stating she only opposed those unwilling to demonstrate complete loyalty to Australia. The rally concluded with her urging voters to take back the country the right way, at the ballot box.
In significant political news, Hanson revealed plans to run One Nation candidates across Victoria in the 2026 state election, though she personally wouldn't consider moving to the state from Queensland. The announcement comes as One Nation polls at record levels of 15-18%, surpassing the Greens as Australia's third-most popular party.
Violent Clashes and Police Intervention
The demonstration turned chaotic as hundreds of anti-racism activists converged on the event, determined to shut it down. Tense standoffs escalated into violent scuffles that forced riot squad officers to form protective barriers between the opposing groups.
During Hanson's speech, a heckler repeatedly shouted racists and Go home Pauline through a megaphone equipped with blaring sirens before police removed the protester. Witnesses reported several men becoming embroiled in fist fights until officers intervened.
Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell, One Nation's first elected representative in the Victorian Parliament, told attendees were over the moon to hear Hanson speak despite the disruptions. The confrontation lasted barely a minute according to Tyrrell, with protesters swiftly escorted from the rally.
Hanson required police protection when leaving the event, interacting with supporters through a caged fence barrier before being escorted to her vehicle amid security concerns.
The rally occurs just days after Hanson's seven-day Senate suspension following her controversial parliamentary protest where she entered wearing a full black burqa. This stunt responded to being blocked from introducing legislation to ban full-face coverings in public spaces.
