Australia: Environmental activists to stage protests in Melbourne 17:00 Dec. 23

Event

Environmental activists affiliated with the Extinction Rebellion (XR) movement will gather at the State Library of Victoria in Melbourne 17:00 Dec. 23. Organizers plan to hold additional gatherings at other locations as they intend to cause disruptions across Melbourne's Central Business District to demand awareness on issues related to climate change. Typical protest venues include prominent government buildings, public squares, and roadways. Hundreds of protesters previously attended similar demonstrations.

Authorities will likely increase security near larger gathering sites; roadblocks are likely, especially on Lonsdale and Russell streets. While the demonstration will probably remain largely peaceful, minor confrontations between police and protesters could occur. The planned gathering will likely prompt transport disruptions in central Melbourne; protesters may also march on nearby roadways.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a standard security precaution. Leave the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Plan for localized transport disruptions in central Melbourne through the evening of Dec. 23.