On Friday, April 25, 2025, a neo-Nazi and a group of men disrupted the Anzac Day dawn service at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne. Booing and heckling rang out during a Welcome to Country, which is a traditional Indigenous ceremony, as tens of thousands of Victorians gathered to pay tribute to generations of Australian servicemen and women.
Jacob Hersant, a self-declared neo-Nazi and the first person in Victoria convicted for performing the Nazi salute, was seen being led away from the shrine by police. His actions sparked outrage among attendees and officials alike. Bunurong elder Uncle Mark Brown was interrupted during his Welcome to Country by a voice in the crowd yelling, “It’s Australia,” followed by “What about the Anzacs?”
A group of about six to eight men stood close to the front of the crowd, and their voices were picked up by microphones, allowing their disruptive comments to be heard over the speakers. One young man was captured on phone footage declaring he was “standing up for white Australia” and repeating the phrase “Australia for the white man.” He even attempted to justify his comments by claiming that the Anzacs were racist. His smirking demeanor only added to the shock of the crowd, who called him “ignorant” and urged him to “show some respect.”
Opposition leader Peter Dutton condemned the stunt, emphasizing the importance of recognizing Indigenous heritage during such commemorations. “We have a proud Indigenous heritage in this country, and we should be proud to celebrate it as part of today,” he remarked after attending an Anzac Day service in Queensland. Dutton stressed the significant role Indigenous Australians play in the Australian Defence Force and the need to honor all who have served.
Attendees described the outburst as concerning, with Sunrise host Nat Barr calling it “disgusting.” “It was horrific to have those people here booing; I thought that was absolute disrespect,” one attendee expressed. Police later interviewed a 26-year-old man from Kensington regarding what they termed “offensive behaviour.” They confirmed they would proceed with a summons against him.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan strongly condemned the “hateful disruption,” calling the neo-Nazi's actions appalling. “Anzac Day honors the values our Anzacs lived and died for: courage, loyalty, mateship, and sacrifice,” she stated. “Those who booed in the dark showed they have none of these qualities.” Allan emphasized that Anzac Day is a time to unite, reflect, and remember, stating that the actions of the hecklers dishonored all who have served and fought for the nation.
In Sydney, meanwhile, dignitaries marked the 110th anniversary of the landing at Gallipoli during World War I. Former Air Force warrant officer and Aboriginal elder Harry Allie welcomed attendees to Gadigal country, touching on Indigenous Australians’ historical involvement in the Defence Force. “As Indigenous Australians were not of European descent, they were exempt from military service during the time of World War I,” he noted. “It has been estimated that up to 1000, perhaps more, Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people came forward to enlist.”
Allie’s remarks highlighted the loyalty and patriotism that motivated many Indigenous Australians to serve, even when they faced systemic discrimination. The service in Sydney also included a performance of the traditional Maori hymn "Song Of Sorrow," further emphasizing the diverse contributions to Australia’s military history.
The RSL Victoria and the Anzac Commemoration Council expressed their dismay at the actions of the hecklers, issuing a statement that acknowledged the pain caused to Uncle Mark Brown and the Bunurong people. Dr. Robert Webster, president of RSL Victoria, described the actions of the few as “completely disrespectful” to both the Aboriginal community and veterans, stating that the spontaneous applause from the majority of the 50,000-strong crowd drowned out the disruptions.
As the dawn service progressed, thousands bowed their heads for a moment of silence, marking the solemn occasion. The 6 am service began with the sounding of the Long G, echoing the preparations of soldiers for battle. The ceremony served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by Australian servicemen and women, with attendees reciting the Ode of Remembrance in unison.
This year’s service marked 110 years since the Gallipoli campaign, a pivotal moment in Australian military history, and 80 years since the conclusion of the Second World War. It is hoped that up to 10,000 people will participate in the march scheduled for later in the day, further emphasizing the significance of Anzac Day for many Australians.
Despite the ugly scenes caused by the hecklers, the service remained largely solemn, with many attendees expressing gratitude for the opportunity to honor those who served. Julia Urwin, whose father served in the Air Force during World War II, shared her reflections on the importance of remembering their stories. “We need to hear those stories and record them before they’re forgotten,” she said.
For many, including young attendees like 10-year-old Elizabeth Shao, Anzac Day serves as a crucial moment to reflect on the sacrifices made for freedom. “I think people should always commemorate it,” she said, underscoring the importance of remembering those who fought for their rights.
In light of the events that transpired during the dawn service, the need for education and understanding about the Anzacs and their contributions to Australia has never been more pressing. As the nation reflects on its history, it is essential to honor the spirit of Anzac Day by fostering respect and unity among all Australians.
