No arrests at Vic racism rallies

There have been no arrests or reports of property damage during rival rallies between anti-Islam and anti-racism groups in central Melbourne.

Right wing group United Patriots Front (UPF) held their rally on the steps of the Victorian Parliament on Saturday afternoon to voice their anger over comments Premier Daniel Andrews made. They took offence when he said those covering their faces at a previous rally were acting in riotous and violent way.

And as has happened previously, Campaign Against Racism and Fascism (CARF) had a counter rally about the same time in nearby Treasury Place.

Victoria Police warned before the rally that they would intervene in any acts of violence, intimidation, racially motivated attacks or assault.

There was also a large police presence at the rallies.

At one stage the opposing groups exchanged insults when they marched towards the steps of parliament, but there was no serious violence as seen at previous rallies.

There were no arrests and no reports of criminal damage, a police spokesman said on Saturday afternoon.