'Arrest ScoMo': Rowdy mob gathers outside National Press Club

Hundreds of rowdy protesters have descended on Canberra, chanting anti-vaccine sentiments outside the National Press Club as Prime Minister Scott Morrison prepared to address the nation.

Cries of “no more mandates”, “arrest ScoMo” and “we will not comply” could be heard among honking horns and cheering.

Video posted to Twitter shows lines of cars and crowds of people waving Australian flags, and flags in support of Donald Trump. Some held signs reading "End The Mandates" and "No Jabs 4 Jobs”.

The protests are part of the Millions March Against Mandatory Vaccination rally, which saw more than 800 anti-vax protesters gathered on Parliament House lawn on Monday.

Some of the activists told The Canberra Times they intend on staying until the first sitting of Parliament on February 8.

On Tuesday in a park near the National Library, hundreds of protesters set up camp. Political journalist Josh Butler filmed a sea of cars, caravans, buses and tents filling the field.

“Numbers have swelled overnight,” he wrote. “I counted 200+ cars/trucks/vans in this area alone, with more out of sight down the park, and more arriving regularly. They plan more picketing today.”

Mr Butler also captured one protester wearing a homemade tin foil hat.

• Scott Morrison finally responds to controversial Grace Tame moment: 'Always welcome'

• Chinese media's scathing attack on Australia: 'DARKLY IRONIC'

• Premier's blunt response to anti-vax protesters calling for her arrest

National Press Club President and ABC correspondent Laura Tingle posted a photo to Twitter of the crowds outside her office.

A row of police officers can be seen surrounding the group.

“Another day in the office,” she wrote.

Rally members disagree with 'aggressive' approach

Members of The Millions March Against Mandatory Vaccination rally, also called the 2022 Official Convoy to Canberra, have posted updates to Facebook from the rally – but some members disagreed with the disorderly approach.

“Too much noise! It's aggressive.. if you want to make an impact, stop swearing, stop screaming.. speak to the police officers one on one,” one person wrote.

“Explain to them what is happening. Show empathy. Show them the documents. Tell your stories. We need them on our side!”

“Don’t let them rile you,” another said. “It’s more effective if calm and quiet. They have nothing they can fight with.”

Others claimed that approach had fallen on deaf ears.

Entrances to Parliament House were closed by federal police on Tuesday, with only pass holders allowed access, NCA Newswire reported.

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter and download the Yahoo News app from the App Store or Google Play.