Protesters gathered in cities across the country today as part of a national day of action against government policies, with some highlighting concerns over Tony Abbott’s attitude towards the Muslim community.
In Sydney, Unions NSW Secretary Mark Lennon criticised the Prime Minister’s recent comments calling for increased support from Muslim leaders.
Mr Lennon said the statements were “very inappropriate”.
“We here today send a very strong message to the Muslim community in Australia that we all stand together,” he said.
“We all stand together to ensure that we all fight terrorism, from whatever corner that may come. It comes from all different parts of the community.”
Wafa Ibrahim from the Arab Council of Australia also criticised recent government actions, stating that “regardless of someone’s race, ethnicity, culture or religion, everyone should be treated equally”.
“The comments that Tony Abbott made, they weren’t fair,” she said.
Ms Ibrahim was one of the thousands of people who rallied in Sydney, shutting down Macquarie Street outside Parliament House.
The crowd – which also included nurses, teachers, disability and electrical workers - chanted "Fight for our rights.
The rally, part of the national day of action, has also criticised the NSW government's privatisation of public assets, including hospitals and the planned electricity sell-off.
In 15 rallies, thousands of union members and workers spoke out against federal government policies, from health and education to workplace relations and defence.
Australian Council of Trade Unions secretary Dave Oliver joined more than 5000 people in Melbourne for a march through the city centre, shutting down some of the city's busiest streets.
Crowds shouted anti-Liberal Party slogans, declaring their voices would be heard in the workplace, in the community and at the ballot box.
"We don't want them to attack our living standards, and we don't want them to attack our rights at work," Mr Oliver told reporters.
About 500 unionists took part in Canberra, standing firm in opposition to higher university fees.
