Why Are Indians Targeted in Anti-Immigration Protests in Australia?
Casal dels Infants – Thousands of Australians marched in nearly 20 cities last Sunday against mass immigration, with Indians as the main target. Interestingly, the demonstrations specifically targeted the Indian community, even though they made up only 3.2 percent of the total population in 2024.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Indians born overseas are the second-largest migrant group after those from the UK, numbering around 840,000 as of June 2023. Although relatively small in proportion, the rapid growth of the Indian community since the 2000s has drawn attention in debates over social and economic issues, particularly rising living costs, housing shortages, and unemployment.
Data shows that migration from India to Australia has steadily increased, with the exception of the Covid-19 years. Australian politicians from both government and opposition parties often acknowledge the positive contributions of the Indian community. However, far-right groups such as white supremacists and neo-Nazis view the presence of non-white and non-Christian populations as a threat.
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In pamphlets distributed by the protest organizers, March for Australia, Indians were singled out: “MORE INDIANS IN 5 YEARS, THAN GREEKS AND ITALIANS IN 100.”
Some groups also worry about the growing political influence of Indian Australians. They believe the community, often perceived as favoring the Liberal Party, could shape the country’s future political landscape. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s government has claimed that the protests were linked to neo-Nazi elements.
Several protest supporters showed their affiliations through social media activity. Their posts revealed links to misogyny, anti-abortion movements, climate change denial, Trump support, and conspiracy theories.
The rallies were attended by members of the neo-Nazi group National Socialist Network (NSN). Thomas Sewell, the group’s leader, addressed the crowd directly. He stood alongside figures from Katter’s Australian Party, a small regional party led by federal MP Bob Katter.
Sewell’s group has previously attacked Aboriginal communities, the original inhabitants of Australia. Photos and videos circulating online showed him wearing symbols associated with neo-Nazism while supporters cheered.
Support for the NSN has grown on social media. One user, Jarrod Hampton, wrote: “It’s time to give us back our WHITE NATION!” while sharing a video of cheering crowds.
An account called “Anti-Feminist Australia” went further, demanding that women’s voting rights be revoked, arguing that women’s political decisions are “too emotional.” This misogynistic rhetoric has become part of the broader far-right narrative surrounding the protests.
Beyond neo-Nazi groups, right-wing politicians have also amplified anti-immigration rhetoric. Craig Kelly, a former senator, frequently calls climate change a “scam” and renewable energy a “delusion.” He advocates a return to fossil fuels to provide cheap electricity while simultaneously attacking the government’s immigration policies.
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