An elderly protester was pushed to the ground after tensions escalated during a disability funding rally in Melbourne.

The incident occurred at a national day of action opposing proposed changes to the National Disability Insurance Scheme, where clashes broke out between demonstrators and police.

Organisers are now calling on Victoria Police to issue an apology, claiming the situation escalated into chaos.

A 79-year-old protester said he was pushed off his bicycle and onto tram tracks after allegedly spitting at officers, adding that he was later thrown to the ground while holding his bike.

He also said he had confronted police over the arrest of a woman who allegedly heckled a politician nearby, describing the entire incident as confusing and emotionally overwhelming.

Another protester was reportedly detained after allegedly attempting to assault officers during the confrontation.

Police stated that both a man and a woman were taken from the scene, processed, and later released, while confirming that the cyclist was not arrested and that investigations are ongoing.

Organisers of the rally described the police response as excessive and said they would continue their campaign against the proposed funding cuts, while also renewing calls for accountability and an apology.