Police clash with journalists during Melbourne anti-war protests

During recent anti-war protests in Melbourne, police have been accused of using excessive force against journalists, resulting in serious injuries. A news photographer reported losing part of his ear and suffering a perforated eardrum after being struck by a rubber bullet. This incident has prompted legal action against Victoria Police, with several media representatives planning to file compensation claims due to injuries sustained during the protests. Wayne Flower, a correspondent for Daily Mail Australia, was among those injured, stating that police appeared to be indiscriminately targeting media personnel. Despite identifying himself as a reporter, he was still subjected to aggressive police behavior. Footage from the protests shows officers threatening journalists who were clearly marked as media, raising concerns about the treatment of press members during civil demonstrations. Lawyers specializing in police misconduct have noted that they have received multiple inquiries from individuals requiring significant medical attention due to police actions. The principal lawyer at Robinson Gill emphasized their experience with similar claims against Victoria Police, indicating a pattern of heavy-handed tactics used against both protesters and journalists. The situation has raised alarms within the media community, with calls for better collaboration between police and journalists to ensure safety during protests. Photographers and reporters have expressed their concerns about the increasing hostility from law enforcement, particularly in Australia, where they feel threatened while performing their duties.