Council response to Richmond lockdown protest

Yarra City Council extends its support to the local community who were affected by Saturday’s violent lockdown protest.

Yarra does not condone violence or intimidating behaviour.

It is unacceptable that many of our residents felt unsafe and were prevented from leaving their homes to enjoy the eased restrictions. As a result of the behaviour of some protestors, many residents reported feeling unsafe in their own community and were unable to go about their daily lives. Local small businesses were unable to operate and were forced to close. The violence, intimidation and aggression of protestors deprived Richmond residents and small businesses of their own freedom.

While we are mindful of the extremely challenging impacts the pandemic is having on individuals, the community and businesses, Yarra City Council does not condone behaviour that threatens or intimidates others.

Council extends its support to residents and wants to thank everyone who is doing the right thing by following the Chief Health Officer’s directives. We also would like to thank all of those who are working so hard to keep our community safe, including those in the health sector, Victoria Police and others on the front line.

/Public Release. View in full here.