Arabic version: مئات يتظاهرون ضد معرض «لاند فورسز» الدفاعي في بيرث

According to ABC News, more than 600 people marched through central Perth in a peaceful protest against the Land Forces defence expo, Australia’s biggest land defence exhibition. The event opened in the Western Australian capital on October 6, two years after protests against the same expo in Melbourne were marked by violent clashes.

The demonstration, organised by 35 groups, began at Yagan Square and proceeded to Elizabeth Quay near the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre, where the expo is being held. Protesters chanted anti-war slogans and carried signs including “there is no future in war”, “warmongers not welcome”, “Guns=Death” and “End arms trade with Israel”. Several Palestinian flags were also raised.

Noongar elders held a traditional smoking ceremony before the march, followed by dancers performing a flash mob to Edwin Starr’s anti-war song “War”. Protester Paddy Cullen said the world was at a crossroads between peace and war. Demonstrator Danica Scott referred to an extra $11.5 million provided to police for expo security during a cost-of-living crisis.

WA Police maintained a heavy presence, with vans and other vehicles on standby. Police have temporary powers for 10 days that allow them to bar excluded persons from the expo and its security zone. The biennial conference runs from October 6 to 8 and includes industry representatives from 60 countries and almost 1,000 exhibiting organisations.

Police Minister Reece Whitby described the security response as the state’s biggest police operation. In Melbourne in 2024, 24 police members were injured and dozens of protesters were arrested during demonstrations against the event.