Neo-Nazi leader Thomas Sewell has told a Victorian court that his leading a white supremacist march through Ballarat's city streets was political, not offensive.

Mr Sewell is charged with one count of behaving in an offensive manner after the rally on December 3, 2023.

He appeared in person in the Ballarat Magistrates' Court to fight the charge during a three-day contested hearing.

Photos and videos shown to the court depict Mr Sewell wearing all-black, leading similarly-clad supporters in masks and balaclavas.

The group was seen carrying a banner with the slogan, "Australia for the White Man, National Socialist Network".

White supremacist chants were also heard coming from the group of roughly 30 men.

The Office of Public Prosecutions must prove that any reasonable person would find

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