WA Police Block 15 Anti‑Immigration Activists from Anzac Day Dawn Service After Eastern States Booing

Anzac Day commemorations across Australia experienced disruptions this year, specifically marked by instances of booing during Indigenous acknowledgments of country. These incidents occurred at dawn services in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne, drawing condemnation from First Nations leaders, RSL officials, and state premiers. One arrest followed a disturbance at the Sydney dawn service. Ahead of the services, some anti-immigration groups had encouraged their supporters to contact RSL branches, advocating for the exclusion of welcome to country ceremonies.

Western Australian police implemented proactive measures to prevent similar disruptions. Officers removed 15 individuals linked to issue-motivated groups from Anzac Day services across the state. Fourteen of these removals took place in Perth, with one additional individual removed from a regional Western Australian service. Police made no arrests during these interventions. WA Police stated their clear objective was to protect the commemorations' dignity, maintain public safety, and ensure the community could pay their respects without disruption. Federal opposition leader Angus Taylor weighed in on the wider issue, describing the booing as "absolutely inappropriate and un-Australian." He further noted his understanding of the frustration some Australians express regarding the frequent use of welcome to country ceremonies.

The pre-emptive police action in Western Australia reflects an intensified approach to managing protests during significant national events. These incidents underscore a continuing public discourse about the role of Indigenous acknowledgments within national commemorations. Observers will monitor how event organizers and law enforcement agencies adapt future strategies to balance freedom of expression with the solemnity of such services.