"I think it's important we do exercise tolerance and we do exercise respect, and that is what is happening, but what we don't need to do is import the sort of violent protests we've seen in America," Mr McCormack said.

"We don't have the sort of racism outbreaks that we see in America, nor the sort of violent protests that began in Minneapolis after the unfortunate death of George Floyd."

Mr McCormack stood by the sentiment that "all lives do matter" and went on to praise the work of the police force, saying that Australians should feel "very thankful" for their service.

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He also praised the efforts of BLM organiser Joe Williams, saying racism would not be tolerated in Wagga.

The Wagga Black Lives Matter rally will begin at 10am on Saturday.

The rally's starting point has now been moved to Bolton Park and marchers will walk along Morgan Street and then down Baylis Street to the Wagga amphitheatre.

Wagga police will be managing the traffic as the march progresses across Baylis Street intersections.

The march was originally supposed to start outside Kildare Catholic College, but the starting point was moved to avoid crossing busy Edward Street.

Organiser Joe Williams has also appealed for people taking part to remember social distancing requirements and to stay away entirely if they are unwell.