'Stop the intervention' protests

Rallies against the Northern Territory intervention into Aboriginal communities took place across Australia on February 13. In Sydney, 350 people rallied at the Redfern Community Centre where they were met by 80 Aboriginal activists and supportersRallies against the Northern Territory intervention into Aboriginal communities took place across Australia on February 13. In Sydney, 350 people rallied at the Redfern Community Centre where they were met by 80 Aboriginal activists and supporters who walked 17km from La Perouse. Speakers included Irene Fisher, an Aboriginal health worker with the NT's Sunshine Health Service, and Greens MLC Lee Rhiannon.

In Alice Springs, about 150 people listened to speakers, including Ampilatwatja walk-off spokesperson, Richard Downs, at a rally in the mall, before marching to Woolworths for a speakout against the 'basics card', under which Aboriginal welfare recipients have half their income quarantined, and only able to be spent at certain stores.

In Melbourne, 200 people marched on parliament house. Speakers included Geelong and Region Trades and Labour Council secretary Tim Gooden, recently returned from the Ampilatwatja protest house work brigade. Actions also took place in Perth, where 100 people protested, and Adelaide.

From GLW issue 826