Anti-Iraq war protesters briefly scuffled with police in Sydney today before the arrival of US vice-president Dick Cheney.
Police said seven people were arrested when police barred up to 200 Stop the War Coalition protesters from marching through Australia's largest city, demanding Prime Minister John Howard pull troops out of Iraq.
A heavy police presence surrounded the protesters in an attempt to minimise disruption to commuters, some of whom also squabbled with police.
Protesters held placards saying "Dick Go Home & Take John With You" and "Coalition of the Killing".
Police later relented and shepherded protesters as they marched towards the US consulate. Another protest is planned for tomorrow.
Mr Cheney is to meet Mr Howard on Saturday. The Australian prime minister, who is facing an election this year, has ruled out following Britain's example and cutting troop numbers in Iraq.