The University of Melbourne has taken drastic measures to crack down on protests following a series of high-profile pro-Palestine sit-ins and encampments on campus. In response to the incidents, which sparked fears among staff and students, Professor Glyn Davis, interim Vice-Chancellor, revealed that the university had "quite sharply" altered its approach in addressing such events.
Professor Davis testified before a royal commission investigating antisemitism and social cohesion, citing concerns over potential confrontations seen in other countries. He acknowledged that a pro-Palestine encampment established in 2024 had generated "fear and unsafety" among staff and students, with instances of "heckling and harassment" reported during the occupation.
The situation escalated after a sit-in at the UoM's Arts West building in May 2024, followed by the occupation of Jewish physics professor Steven Prawer's office in October of the same year. Professor Davis noted that these incidents had not breached the university's racism policy and were not classified as antisemitic.
In response to the changed atmosphere, the UoM has implemented new rules prohibiting external individuals from protesting on campus, banned camping on university grounds, and forbidden indoor protests. Students or staff found in breach of these regulations face disciplinary action, including potential suspension or expulsion.
The university has also revised its Wi-Fi policies after a 2025 investigation found that it had breached Victoria's Privacy and Data Protection Act by using its Wi-Fi network to surveil students and staff during a sit-in. The UoM now provides clear warnings regarding Wi-Fi usage.
Professor Davis hinted at further reforms, including revising the university's rules on postering following a request from Professor Prawer to identify the authors of posters after offensive material was distributed around campus and in his office.