Sydney – In an unprecedented display of unity and outrage, an estimated 300,000 people marched across Sydney’s Harbour Bridge on Sunday, braving torrential rain to call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the recognition of Palestine, and an end to Israel’s relentless military campaign.
What began as a grassroots movement quickly turned into one of the largest pro-Palestine demonstrations in Australian history. Families, students, elders, activists, and first-time protesters joined hands under a sea of umbrellas, transforming the city’s most iconic landmark into a thunderous voice for justice.
The protest, organised by the Palestine Action Group Sydney and dubbed the March for Humanity, highlighted the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where food, water, and medical aid have been critically limited. Many demonstrators carried pots and pans—powerful symbols of starvation—while others raised Palestinian flags and banners demanding global accountability.
Chants of “We are all Palestinians” and “Ceasefire now!” echoed through the city as speakers addressed the crowd from both humanitarian and political platforms. Emotions ran high as marchers shared stories, solidarity, and tears over the suffering of civilians in Gaza.
New South Wales police and the state premier had initially tried to block the protest, citing public safety and traffic disruption. But the NSW Supreme Court overturned the decision less than 24 hours before the event, clearing the way for the historic march to proceed. Over a thousand police officers were deployed to monitor the event, but despite the size of the crowd, the rally remained entirely peaceful.
Acting Deputy Police Commissioner Peter McKenna acknowledged the challenge of handling such a large turnout but confirmed, “No one was hurt. But gee whiz, I wouldn’t like to try and do this every Sunday on that short notice.”
The protest also drew notable public figures, including supporters of Julian Assange, Indigenous rights activists, and medical professionals who voiced concern over the bombing of Gaza’s hospitals and clinics. Many participants expressed disillusionment with Western governments’ failure to act, including Australia’s.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has stated his support for a two-state solution but has stopped short of recognising Palestine, prompting criticism from protesters who say words without action are no longer enough.
“I came here because silence is complicity,” said a university student holding a sign that read, ‘My taxes are funding bombs, not bread’. Another marcher, in her 80s, told reporters: “In Australia, I have the privilege of healthcare. In Gaza, hospitals are being bombed. I’m here for that injustice.”
The protest in Sydney was mirrored by a similar rally in Melbourne, and reflects a growing global call for an end to the violence, echoed by recent moves from France, Canada, and other nations considering the recognition of Palestinian statehood.
With each footstep across the Harbour Bridge, Sydney’s citizens sent a clear message: the world is watching—and it demands peace.
