Eight charged after Reclaim rallies

Eight people, including six in Victoria, have been charged following rival anti-Islam and pro-diversity protests around Australia.

Anti-Islam rallies organised by the right-wing Reclaim Australia group in the capitals on Sunday were opposed by left-wing groups, who held their own protests at the same locations.

The largest rallies were in Melbourne, where Reclaim Australia and locals protested about the planned construction of a mosque.

Six people were arrested - one for animal cruelty accused of punching a police horse, two for riotous behaviour and three for weapons offences.

Capsicum spray was used as scuffles broke out between the rival mobs, which each numbered about 500 people.

In Brisbane, a 64-year-old man was charged with public nuisance after he allegedly jumped a barricade in a rowdy but non-violent protest in Brisbane's CBD.

In Adelaide, a 48-year-old man was charged with affray in the rallies at Adelaide Festival Plaza.

All eight are expected to face court at a later date.

Protests were rowdy but largely peaceful in Sydney, Perth, Canberra and Hobart.