The Royal Commission into Antisemitism and Social Cohesion has begun a new round of public hearings in Melbourne, examining allegations of antisemitism at Australian universities. During the opening day, Jewish students, academics and university staff gave evidence describing experiences of harassment, intimidation and discrimination on campus, particularly following the Israel–Hamas conflict that began in October 2023.
Several witnesses told the commission they no longer felt safe expressing their Jewish identity at university. Evidence presented included claims of antisemitic jokes, Nazi salutes, offensive graffiti, verbal abuse and social exclusion. Some witnesses said they were reluctant to report incidents because they believed universities would not respond effectively.
The hearings are examining whether universities have adequately protected students and staff from unlawful discrimination while also balancing freedom of expression and peaceful protest. Witnesses argued that stronger policies, clearer reporting processes and more consistent disciplinary action are needed to address antisemitic behaviour on campuses.
One academic described feeling unsafe while teaching after alleged incidents involving Nazi salutes by students. Other witnesses said they experienced hostility because they were Jewish or were perceived to support Israel. The commission heard that these experiences affected both academic participation and personal wellbeing.
The hearings also come as Australian universities begin implementing new national governance standards requiring institutions to adopt definitions addressing antisemitism, Islamophobia and other forms of racism. The measures are intended to strengthen university responses to discrimination while protecting the rights of all students.
Over the coming days, vice-chancellors and senior leaders from several universities, including the University of Melbourne, Monash University, the University of Sydney and the Australian National University, are expected to give evidence about their institutions' policies and responses to complaints of antisemitism.
The Royal Commission is examining how universities and other institutions can better promote social cohesion while addressing all forms of racism and discrimination. Its final recommendations are expected to guide future policies aimed at improving safety, accountability and inclusion across Australia's higher education sector.
