Two women have been arrested in Melbourne’s CBD following a women’s rights rally that turned violent.
The #WomenWillSpeak demonstration, which took place outside Parliament House about midday on Saturday, intensified following a counter protest by pro-trans rights activists.
Footage taken of the event and posted on social media shows police using pepper spray to keep protesters back, and tackling some to the ground.
The Herald Sun reported its photographer was injured in a scuffle and pepper sprayed.
In a statement on Saturday afternoon, police said they were “disappointed at the behaviour of many” who attended the rally.
“We had a significant presence to ensure public safety with approximately 100 people attending the rally,” police said.
“Our members were confronted by hostile members of the crowd who acted out violently towards police.
“We have a long history of supporting peaceful protest but will not tolerate disgraceful and unlawful behaviour.”
Police said OC spray was deployed when members of the group attempted to breach the police line.
The women arrested were aged in their 20s and will be charged on summons, police said.
Officers are also reviewing footage of the incident to identify any other offending.