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An Australian senator who posted a vile rant after the terror attack at two mosques in New Zealand punched a teenage boy who egged the politician in front of journalists.

Footage shows Senator Fraser Anning, who is known for inflammatory remarks, speaking to reporters as the 17-year-old protester walks up behind him and pulls out his mobile phone.

The teen smashes an egg over the back of Anning's head while recording video, and the right-wing politician quickly turns around and angrily punches him in the face.

The senator delivers a second blow with his left fist and grabs the boy as a crowd rushes in to break them apart.

(Image: Twitter)

During the struggle the teenager - since dubbed "Egg Boy" on social media - is wrestled to the floor, pinned down and placed in a headlock by Anning's supporters.

The dramatic incident happened as Anning, an independent Queensland senator, spoke at an event in Melbourne on Saturday.

He was meeting supporters of his new Conservative National Party as protesters gathered outside to condemn the senator over his rant.

(Image: Twitter)

The teen was held by Anning's supporters until police arrived.

A Victoria Police spokesman told ABC that a 17-year-old boy, from Hampton, was arrested and then released pending further inquiries.

An online fundraising page is collecting donations to pay for the teen's legal fees and to buy "more eggs".

The teen was held by Anning's supporters until police arrived.

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A petition calling for Anning to be removed from office has more than 225,000 signatures.

After Friday's terror attack left 49 people dead and about 50 injured, Anning tried to claim the massacre of worshippers in Christchurch was a result of New Zealand's immigration policies.

He accused New Zealand of letting "Muslim fanatics" into the country.

His remarks were widely condemned, and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said a motion censuring Anning will be tabled when Parliament resumes.

The Prime Minister said: "These comments are appalling and they're ugly and they have no place in Australia. He should be, frankly, ashamed of himself."