Police fire tear gas and water cannons as tens of thousands rally in France over the cost of living
Tens of thousands of people rallied in France over the cost of living, according to reports published early on Sunday 18 October Sydney time. Police fired tear gas and water cannons to push back people wearing hoods and masks. Some threw fireworks at police. The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, Brisbane Times and WA Today carried the story. The material reviewed did not give a count of arrests or injuries, or the name of the organisers.
Cost-of-living anger in a large European economy affects energy and food prices, travel and the political stability of the euro area. Australians planning travel to France are directly affected by transport disruption.
If you are travelling in France, check the Smartraveller advice and avoid protest areas. Allow extra time for trains and flights if strikes accompany the rallies.
Tear gas and fireworks are what it looks like when the price of living outruns the pay packet. Australia is watching its own version of that.
DailyDrop Australia edition No. 14 · Morning · SUN., OCT. 18, 2026