Violent clashes at Liberal fundraiser in Melbourne, MP attacked
A Liberal fundraiser in Melbourne has erupted into violence with police clashing with dozens of angry protesters.
Punches have been thrown and capsicum spray has been used to control the angry students.
7 News understand the protestors tried to jump in front of cars at the event.
Injured protesters police deploy capsicum spray @7NewsMelbourne pic.twitter.com/YjuVu54m7e
— Jacqueline Felgate (@Jacquifelgate) April 8, 2016
Mounted officers forced them back, throwing some of them to the ground.
The Prime Minister is due to arrive shortly at the function.
Protestors surround one bloke and chant for two minutes. pic.twitter.com/pTvhsmj8qK
— Brendan Donohoe (@BrendanDonohoe7) April 8, 2016
The function is being held to mark 20 years since John Howard was first elected.
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and John Howard are expected to speak at the event.
@7NewsMelbourne bleeding protesters pic.twitter.com/L5ULRWbWVa
— Jacqueline Felgate (@Jacquifelgate) April 8, 2016
It's estimated around 150 people are gathered outside a Docklands function venue to protest the federal government's changes to higher education and the treatment of asylum seekers.
Upper house MP attacked by protesters @7NewsMelbourne police move in pic.twitter.com/BoKVdiC2Yz
— Jacqueline Felgate (@Jacquifelgate) April 8, 2016
Clashes with mounted police @7NewsMelbourne pic.twitter.com/y3kJtrXfhu
— Jacqueline Felgate (@Jacquifelgate) April 8, 2016
Some of the building's windows were broken as demonstrators clashed with police, with officers using pepper spray on about 10 people, including an ABC cameraman.
More to come.
News break – April 8
