University of Melbourne ‘sharply’ changed protest policies after pro-Palestine sit-ins, commission hears
Summary
The University of Melbourne changed its rules on protests after pro-Palestine sit-ins and office occupations in 2024. These changes include banning outsiders from protesting on campus, no camping allowed, and stricter speaking and posting rules to avoid conflict and protect people on campus.Key Facts
- Pro-Palestine protests at the University of Melbourne in 2024 led the university to change its protest policies sharply.
- The protests included a sit-in demanding the university cut ties with Israel and weapons companies.
- The university’s interim vice-chancellor, Prof Glyn Davis, said they worked to avoid violence and consulted with police regularly.
- Some protests involved harassment and heckling, but not behavior officially classified as antisemitic or racist under university policy.
- Jewish professor Steven Prawer’s office was occupied by protesters, causing concerns about safety and misbehavior.
- New rules now ban outsiders from protesting on campus, forbid camping, and restrict indoor protests; breaking these rules can lead to suspension or expulsion.
- The university used wifi surveillance during protests but later changed its privacy rules to warn users when monitoring occurs.
- Further rule changes may come, including requiring people to put their names on posters to reduce offensive material and protect academic freedom.
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