Tens of Thousands Rally Across Australia in Support of Palestinians Amid Gaza Famine

On August 24, 2025, tens of thousands of Australians participated in nationwide demonstrations advocating for Palestinian support and urging government intervention in the Gaza humanitarian crisis. Major cities, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide, witnessed large-scale, peaceful protests. Organizers estimated approximately 100,000 participants in Sydney alone, with a total of 300,000 across the country, though police figures were notably lower.

Protesters called for sanctions on Israel and an end to Australia's arms trade with the nation. They also urged the Australian government to follow through on its plan to recognize Palestinian statehood at the upcoming United Nations meeting, emphasizing the need for tougher sanctions.

The demonstrations coincided with a report from the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), which confirmed famine conditions in Gaza City, marking the first recognized famine in the Middle East. The IPC warned that the crisis could spread to other regions without a ceasefire and unrestricted humanitarian aid access.

Since the conflict began in October 2023, over 62,000 Palestinians have reportedly died, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. The war was initiated by a Hamas-led attack on Israel that resulted in approximately 1,200 Israeli deaths.

The Australian protests reflect growing international concern over the humanitarian situation in Gaza and increasing calls for political action to address the ongoing crisis.