Hundreds arrested in skirmishes during Australia lockdown protests

The largest and most violent protest was in Melbourne

Police use pepper spray on protesters during an anti-lockdown protest in Melbourne. Picture: James Ross/AAP Image via AP

More than 250 people have been arrested during protests against coronavirus lockdowns in Australia and many face fines for defying health orders, authorities said.

At least seven police officers were treated for injuries after skirmishes broke out at some of the protests, which took place in cities nationwide.