Clashes Erupt Between Police and Anti-War Protesters Outside Melbourne Weapons Expo

In Melbourne, violent clashes erupted between police and anti-war protesters outside the Land Forces International Land Defence Exposition, held at the Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre. The confrontation led to significant disruptions, including road closures, tram route interruptions, and heightened security as delegates were escorted into the venue.
Protesters, who began gathering around 6 a.m., targeted the expo in a demonstration against the Gaza war and the role of weaponry in global conflicts. They were met with a robust police response, including the use of rubber bullets and stun grenades. The protests saw demonstrators throwing horse manure, rocks, eggs, and rotten tomatoes at officers, as well as setting fires in street bins.
The crowd, which included participants chanting “free, free Palestine” and waving Palestinian flags, surrounded the convention centre entrance. As the day progressed, tensions intensified with protesters accusing the expo of supporting genocide and calling for greater scrutiny of the defense industry.
The demonstration, expected to be Victoria’s largest since the World Economic Forum protests in 2000, led to significant logistical challenges. Police blocked access to major freeways, causing substantial traffic congestion across the city.
Earlier in the day, two men in suits attempting to enter the expo were attacked by protesters before police intervened. The situation escalated, with protesters hurling rocks and using horns to disrupt police efforts. Mounted officers used whips to control the crowd, and pepper spray was deployed on demonstrators.
As the expo opened to the public at 9 a.m., police attempted to arrest a woman, leading to further tensions. Eggs were thrown at officers on Clarendon Street Bridge, and one protester was seen bleeding from a head injury after being hit by an object.
The protest saw participants aggressively berating attendees of the expo, with loud bangs and chaos causing some to cover their ears and mouths. The police presence was heavy, and the situation remained volatile throughout the day as the clash between protesters and law enforcement continued.