Vice-chancellors from several of Australia’s leading universities are set to appear before the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion as the inquiry examines how higher education institutions responded to allegations of antisemitism on campus following the Israel–Hamas conflict. The hearings are expected to focus on whether universities provided adequate protection for Jewish students and staff while balancing freedom of expression and the right to protest.
Among the institutions called to give evidence are the University of Sydney, University of Melbourne, Monash University, the Australian National University (ANU) and Macquarie University. Senior university leaders will be questioned about their policies, disciplinary processes, campus protests and the steps taken to address complaints of antisemitic behaviour.
The inquiry follows numerous incidents reported since late 2023, including pro-Palestinian encampments, disruptions to lectures, complaints from Jewish students and academics, and allegations that some universities failed to respond quickly enough to intimidation or harassment. Jewish advocacy groups argue that many students and staff felt unsafe or reluctant to openly express their identity, while universities maintain they have strengthened policies and security measures over the past two years.
The hearings are also expected to consider evidence from the Australian Academic Alliance Against Antisemitism (5A), whose representatives argue that antisemitic behaviour has become normalised on some campuses and that stronger institutional leadership is required. Australia’s Special Envoy to Combat Antisemitism, Jillian Segal, and other experts have previously recommended tougher measures to combat hate speech, improve complaint handling and strengthen protections for affected students and staff.
University representatives have said they will cooperate fully with the commission. The University of Sydney stated that it has made significant progress in addressing antisemitism but acknowledges further work remains, while the University of Melbourne and Monash University reaffirmed their commitment to providing safe, inclusive learning environments for all members of their communities.
The Royal Commission’s findings could influence future university governance, campus conduct policies and federal education reforms. Observers say the inquiry is likely to shape how Australian universities manage allegations of antisemitism and other forms of discrimination while maintaining academic freedom and lawful protest rights. The commission is expected to continue hearing evidence from university leaders, student representatives and community organisations in the coming weeks.
