MOONEE PONDS — Pauline Hanson's One Nation relocated a fundraising event in Melbourne after the Giorgio Casa bistro in Moonee Ponds withdrew its reservation. The event was scheduled to be attended by Hanson and Barnaby Joyce, and it was moved to an undisclosed location.

A spokesperson for One Nation said, "Victorian police did express concern about protest activity at the event." However, a spokesperson for Victoria Police said, "Officers were not aware of any threats made towards the event." The spokesperson added, "The decision not to hold the event was made by the venue," and said, "Police will maintain a presence in the area due to potential protest activity."

Moonee Ponds City Council advised residents to avoid the area where protests were scheduled and stated that temporary road closures would be implemented for up to four hours. The Australian Federal Police referred inquiries regarding the investigation to state police.

The Victorian Socialists and the Campaign Against Racism and Fascism had planned a demonstration in the area. Omar Hassan, a spokesperson for Victorian Socialists, said, "We will be taking our chance to mobilise strongly and let the world know that a party bought and paid for by Gina Rinehart, which votes against wage rises, supports devastating wars overseas and bigotry at home, is not welcome in Melbourne."

A spokesperson for the party confirmed the fundraiser was sold out but did not provide attendance figures. Hanson had previously attended a party event in Perth that drew hundreds of protesters.