Wilders raises tension in Australia

Far-right Dutch politician Geert Wilders’ visit to Australia is raising tension in the country over concerns that his anti-Islam rhetoric would trigger protests from the Muslim community.

Wilders, the leader of the far-right Freedom Party (PVV), has arrived in Australia at the invitation of Q Society, to speak against what he calls the “Islamization” of Europe.

He has been brought to Australia by this organisation, which claims to be "upholding Australian values".

As he arrived in Melbourne, the far-right politician began firing his anti-Islam slurs.

“If you really want to preserve your freedom, if you really want to preserve your identity as a country that is not Islamic, that is based on Christianity and Judaism... you should open your eyes, learn from the mistakes we made in Europe and make sure they don't happen here”, Wilders told.

“Islam has no room for anything but Islam, and Islam will get its way also in Australia. People who are non-Islamic, Jews, Christians and women, would be the first ones to pay the price.”

Australian officials have warned that Wilders could face prosecution if his anti-Islam comments went out of line.