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Tens of Thousands Rally Across Australia as Sydney Opera House Ban Holds

Organisers reported 30,000 in Sydney, vowing to move to monthly actions despite a fragile US‑brokered ceasefire.

A protester holds a placard with an image of Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, during the 'Nationwide March for Palestine', after a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza went into effect, in Sydney, Australia, October 12, 2025. REUTERS/Hollie Adams
Demonstrators hold a large Palestinian flag during the 'Nationwide March for Palestine', after a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza went into effect, in Sydney, Australia, October 12, 2025. REUTERS/Hollie Adams
Demonstrators hold Palestinian flags during the 'Nationwide March for Palestine', after a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza went into effect, in Sydney, Australia, October 12, 2025. REUTERS/Hollie Adams
Demonstrators hold a banner during the 'Nationwide March for Palestine', after a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza went into effect, in Sydney, Australia, October 12, 2025. REUTERS/Hollie Adams

Overview

  • Organisers said about 30,000 marched in Sydney as part of 27 rallies nationwide, while NSW Police estimated roughly 8,000 in Sydney.
  • The NSW Court of Appeal’s prohibition on gathering at the Opera House remained in force, with fenced steps, harbour patrols and officers blocking access.
  • Organisers said protests will shift to a monthly cadence despite the ceasefire; police reported no arrests as the Sydney march moved from Hyde Park to Belmore Park.
  • Speakers included Australians recently released after Israel intercepted a Gaza‑bound flotilla, who alleged mistreatment in detention.
  • Around a dozen pro‑Israel boats displaying Australian and Israeli flags cruised near Luna Park on Sydney Harbour as the street rallies proceeded.