Peace protests demand Australia scraps AUKUS, cuts weapons ties with Israel

Protesters took to the streets on September 21 to demand the Labor government breaks its military ties with the United States and Israel.

The protests, on the eve of the United Nations Day of Peace, highlighted how the federal government’s decision to support the Coalition-orchestrated AUKUS binds it to support the Israeli state’s genocide in Gaza.

From Kaurna Yerta/Adelaide, Markela Panegyres reports that there was a festive atmosphere for the rally at Yartapuulti (Port Adelaide). Speakers called for an end to AUKUS and militarism and demanded the Australian government support Palestine by cutting ties with Israel. The protest was organised by Port Adelaide Community Opposing AUKUS.

Two choirs, a giant inflatable submarine, kayakers, drums, music and street theatre were highlights. Another was the arrival of the Peacewalkers Against AUKUS, who had walked more than 400 kilometres from Port Augusta to Port Adelaide to say “No to AUKUS”.