The banning of face masks at protests will be discussed by the police minister and chief commissioner in the wake of a violent rally in Melbourne.
The banning of face masks at protests will be examined after a violent rally in Melbourne, with the coverings labelled a "disturbing trend" by the state's police minister.
Seven people were arrested as more than 500 people rallied in heavy rain against both Islam and racism in Coburg on Saturday.
A Victoria Police taskforce will be created to catch the "cowards" who hid their faces and sparked violent clashes between rival groups during the rally at Bridges Reserve.
Five people were arrested for riotous behaviour as well as assaulting and hindering police, while two more were arrested for carrying knives and other weapons.
Newly appointed Police Minister Lisa Neville told 3AW on Sunday morning she will meet Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton on Monday to talk about the violence, including whether wearing masks at rallies could be banned.
"This issue of the use of face masks, I think that is a really disturbing trend we are seeing in these particular protests," she said.
