Major events minister issues stern warning to anyone planning protests at Australian Open

Minister for Tourism and Major Events Steve Dimopolous has sent a warning for anyone planning protests at the Australian Open – it’s not your event to hijack.

Following the pro-Palestinian protests at Carols By Candlelight last month, there’s fears Melbourne’s biggest annual sporting event could be used as a vehicle for more demonstrations.

Minister Dimopolous said the Australian Open was for all to attend – regardless of stance of the current war in the Middle East – and shouldn’t be taken over by protesters.

Click PLAY to listen to the full interview with Steve Dimopolous on 3AW Drive 

“I get the passion involved here, but you’re not paying for the event,” he told Heidi Murphy on 3AW Drive.

“(The Australian Open is) not yours to capture international attention for five seconds, it’s not your job to do that. We want people to enjoy the game on whatever side of the awful conflict (in the Middle East) you’re on.”

Photo: Alex Zucco/Getty