Australian Couple Threatened with Arrest for Wearing Flags on Australia Day

A patriotic couple celebrating Australia Day in Melbourne was left stunned when a police officer threatened them with arrest for wearing Australian flags on their hats. Frank Strazdins and his partner, Di Thorley, recounted the incident on ABC’s News Breakfast program, revealing that they were accused of “inciting a riot” due to their flag-bearing attire.

According to Strazdins, the encounter occurred when he walked out onto Swanston Street, only to find an ‘Invasion Day’ rally with thousands of Aboriginal and Palestine flags. The police officer allegedly approached Strazdins, asserting that the flags on their heads were the reason for the arrest threat.

Despite explaining that it was Australia Day and expressing confusion, Strazdins was escorted to a nearby store by the officer. Inside, the couple was informed that the presence of 30,000 protesters outside was the issue, prompting disbelief from Thorley, who claimed she had no knowledge of the large gathering.

After negotiating with the officer, the couple was allowed to continue their day in exchange for removing their flag headwear. However, Strazdins described feeling “gobsmacked” and “really disappointed” by the incident.

The couple had earlier attended the 21-gun Australia Day salute at the Shrine of Remembrance, where their flags had garnered positive attention. Despite the positive interactions, the shocking encounter serves as a reminder of the ongoing debate surrounding Australia Day and the challenges faced by individuals expressing their patriotism in public spaces.

Victoria Police, when contacted about the incident, claimed to be unaware of the alleged confrontation, stating that there were no major issues reported during Australia Day celebrations in the CBD. The incident has sparked outrage on social media, with many questioning the appropriateness of such actions by law enforcement on a day meant for national celebration.

Sen Mack writer