Tens of thousands of Australians participated in Invasion Day protests across the country, demanding justice for First Nations people amid heightened tensions and police intervention in Perth. Concurrently, a severe heatwave is affecting South Australia and Victoria, with record temperatures expected, while a significant fish mortality event in Tasmania raises concerns about animal welfare.

Protests Across Australia
On January 26, 2023, thousands took to the streets in major cities including Melbourne, Canberra, and Sydney to mark Invasion Day, a day that many Australians view as a celebration of colonization. In Canberra, speakers emphasized the need for education to confront Australia’s colonial past. Wendy Brookman, a Butchulla woman, highlighted the importance of acknowledging historical injustices, stating, "You cannot heal a wound you refuse to look at." The protests were largely peaceful, but tensions escalated in Melbourne and Canberra where anti-immigration groups clashed with First Nations supporters.

Police Intervention in Perth
In Perth, police shut down a planned Invasion Day rally after receiving reports of a potential threat. Authorities established an exclusion zone around Forrest Place, deploying significant police resources to ensure public safety. One individual was taken into custody as police continued to investigate the situation. WA Police urged the public to avoid the area until further notice.

Severe Weather Threats
As protests unfolded, South Australia and Victoria faced extreme weather conditions. A severe heatwave is gripping the region, with temperatures expected to reach near 50 degrees Celsius. The Bureau of Meteorology has warned that these conditions pose a significant fire threat, prompting authorities to advise over 1,100 residents in Victoria to prepare for potential evacuations. The heatwave follows a series of intense weather events that have raised concerns about climate change impacts in the region.

Fish Mortality Crisis in Tasmania
In a separate issue, recent government data revealed that approximately 4 million salmon died prematurely at Tasmanian fish farms in 2025, with environmental conditions contributing to the crisis. The Environmental Protection Authority indicated that rising ocean temperatures, reaching critical levels for Atlantic salmon, led to significant fish deaths. Calls for accountability under animal welfare legislation have intensified as the industry faces scrutiny over its practices.

Wrap-up
Australia is currently navigating a complex landscape marked by social unrest, extreme weather, and environmental crises. The Invasion Day protests reflect ongoing struggles for recognition and justice among First Nations communities, while the heatwave and fish mortality crisis highlight the pressing challenges posed by climate change and industrial practices.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team