Contributed from Victoria

The real possibility that Donald Trump will visit Australia later this year is beginning to cause a reaction. There is almost no public display in favour of the American president coming to Australia.

On the other hand, reaction against it, is starting to make itself felt on social media.  Chances are that as the details become a little clearer, this will start to build a momentum.

The visit is likely to be a side trip ,on the way to the December APEC summit in PNG.

Since Malcolm Turnbull’s invitation last year, the Greens have shown their opposition, and attempted to amend migration laws to give federal parliament the power to stop the visit.

The disquiet is not limited to the Greens. It is widely shared across Australia and includes many Labor Party members, supporters and others. Trump is not exactly the most popular person in Australia.

A petition is already online through Megaphone.

It says the visit is “…not okay. Malcolm Turnbull must immediately rescind Trump’s invitation. His horrific treatment of migrant children, his advocacy for the gun lobby, his treatment of women and his history of dangerously divisive political rhetoric is not welcome in Australia.

“We can stop President Trump from coming here. In the United Kingdom, over 1 million people signed a petition calling on the British Government to prevent Trump from visiting. Under pressure and not wanting to be embarrassed, Trump cancelled his scheduled visit.

Why is this important?

“While visiting Washington last year, PM Malcolm Turnbull warmly invited President Trump to Australia. Now it seems more likely than ever, with the November APEC summit being hosted in nearby PNG.

“When questioned about the rumours of President Trump visiting in November, fellow Liberal Christopher Pyne said, “We have 100 years of mateship with the United States this year, of course we would welcome him here.”

“We have to stop him. Trump’s racism, sexism and homophobia have dangerously emboldened a violent far-right both in Australia and abroad.

“Years ago, Australia made a peaceful, bipartisan decision to introduce gun controls, making our country safer for all. Trump’s presence in Australia is anathema to our most cherished shared values and would only create unnecessary tension and hostility here. He should not be afforded or extended an official state visit.”