We have just had October 7th pass, which originally saw Hamas led attacks in 2023 resulting in approximately 1,200 deaths in southern Israel.

Some have labelled the protests "heartless" and in extremely poor taste.

Some have seen the day as a time to reflect on the loss of lives in terms of Israel, but others have seen it as a day to take a stand against the loss of lives in Palestine - particularly children for example.

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-10-06/sydney-palestine-protest-on-israel-october-7-attack-anniversary/107232144

A recent United Nations report has detailed serious allegations of Israel deliberately targeting Palestinian children during the conflict since October 2023, with over 20,000 dying since the October 7th attack.

For me personally whether protesting for Palestine or taking a stand for Israel on October 7 and if it is the right or wrong thing to do is a deeply polarising question and I am divided. I wish the date could simply be a vigil for all lives lost in this ongoing situation - but others clearly think differently, with some politicising the issue and date - which for me was unfortunate.

We do though also have the right to freely protest in Australia, something I want to protect - and not lost due to situations like this one.

Who cares? Only 1%-3% of Australians ever take part in street demonstrations or protests, which have little, if any, effect on anything. Australia is a particularly “low protest” country compared with the rest of the world. Demonstrations are just a nuisance to other people wanting to go about their normal business, and to police, who have better things to do. Personally, I don't approve of any demonstrations by any group for any reason. Stupid and undignified.