WA Police have confirmed that members of a neo-Nazi group who chanted “heil Australia” during an anti-immigration rally in Perth at the weekend were not breaking the law, despite the language being described as “distasteful and inappropriate.”
The March for Australia rallies took place on Sunday in cities and towns across the country, drawing both supporters and counter-demonstrators. Experts have voiced concern over far-right groups using immigration debates to mobilise public sentiment.
Footage from the Perth event, which attracted around 5,000 people, showed the neo-Nazi group’s chant from within the crowd. Speaking at the rally, One Nation MP Rod Caddies said such extremists were not welcome.
Police stressed that while the language used is not an offence under current legislation, they strongly condemn any behaviour promoting hate or racism. Under laws introduced late last year, displaying Nazi symbols or performing a Nazi salute in public is a criminal offence in Western Australia, carrying penalties of up to five years in prison, or two years and a $24,000 fine on summary conviction.
Authorities said they will continue to monitor individuals and groups that may pose a public safety risk, intervening if conduct crosses into criminal territory. At the Perth rally, police issued 13 move-on notices and charged three people over separate incidents.
An 18-year-old woman was allegedly found carrying an edged weapon, while a 39-year-old man was charged with obstructing a public officer. Both are due in court later this month. A 19-year-old man was also issued a court summons for carrying or possessing an edged weapon.
The incident has reignited debate over the limits of free expression and the policing of extremist behaviour in public demonstrations.
+ There are no comments
Add yours