Melburnians are being warned to expect major delays and chaos in the CBD this Sunday as police anticipate two protest groups may clash.
At least 2000 people are expected to flood the CBD when an anti-mass immigration protest and an anti-far-right extremism counter-rally take place on Sunday.
The rallies are set to coincide with the opening of the Metro Tunnel, with commuters expected to take advantage of free weekend public transport across the network.
Police are hoping to avoid violent scenes witnessed at a similar protest and counter-protest on October 19. (Nine)
Public transport in Victoria will be free for everyone, every weekend between November 30 until February 1, 2026 to celebrate the launch of the tunnel.
Families are also expected to stream into the city to cash in on Black Friday deals and visit the Myer Christmas windows.
Police have asked the public to brace for disruptions.
“Be mindful of the fact that there will be a lot of traffic in the city, there will be some disruption in the city,” Superintendent Troy Papworth said.
Police are hoping to avoid violent scenes witnessed at a similar protest and counter-protest on October 19.
Superintendnent Troy Papworth said violence will not be tolerated at the protests. (Nine)
They’ve been bailed while investigators continue to hunt for 19 more thugs.
Papworth said they won’t tolerate any violence on the streets amid fears extremists could hijack the rallies.
“If you do come into the city and you do act violent, then you’re going to be caught and you’re going to be, you may as well spend some time in a police cell,” Papworth said.
From Sunday, police will have the power to stop and search people without a warrant and direct them to leave the city.
Officers can also order protesters to remove their masks – even though it won’t become law until next year.