Dozens of protesters have clashed with police outside a Liberal Party fundraiser in Melbourne being attended by Malcolm Turnbull and John Howard.

About 100 people gathered outside the venue at Docklands at 5:30pm to protest against the Federal Government’s proposed cuts to higher education and the deregulation of course fees.

• Labor calls for banks royal commission 
• PM ‘quick’ to dismiss bank probe

The group chanted “No ifs, no buts, no education cuts”, while many carried signs and placards.

Protesters pushed and shoved with police, as horses were brought into manage the crowd.

Officers used pepper spray after some of the group ran to a side entrance to try to confront the Prime Minister.

A number of protesters were hit, along with an ABC News cameraman.

It is unclear if any arrests were made.