Overview

• Approximately 100 National Socialist Network members in black balaclavas marched through Melbourne’s CBD before dispersing at Flagstaff Gardens.
• Victoria Police described the event as a pop-up protest and maintained order through a strong presence.
• A bystander who confronted the group was allegedly assaulted and hospitalised with non-life-threatening injuries.
• Premier Jacinta Allan condemned the protesters as "Nazis" and urged stronger measures to curb extremist hate rallies.
• New anti-vilification laws due next month will empower police to unmask masked demonstrators and sanction hate-motivated conduct.