The University of Melbourne has responded swiftly and severely to a pro-Palestine office occupation, recommending expulsion for two students and suspension for two others. These actions, if upheld, would be the first instances of such severe disciplinary measures against pro-Palestine student activists in Australia since the 2023 demonstrations. The students involved are appealing, challenging the university’s approach.
The incident in question involved a group of around 20 individuals who occupied an academic’s office for about 90 minutes. Their objective was to pressure the university to sever its ties with Israeli academic institutions, aligning with the global boycott, divestment, and sanctions movement. Social media footage from the time showed protesters entering the office with their faces covered.
The university has alleged harassment and intimidation of staff, along with property damage, including placing signs and stickers on university items and writing on personal belongings. The students, however, assert that their demonstration was peaceful and politically motivated, and that they made efforts to minimize disruption by informing those present and offering to turn down music.
One student recommended for expulsion, despite being present for only a brief period and not directly participating in alleged acts of misconduct, was deemed to have violated university rules by her mere presence. This decision aligns with the university’s recently implemented anti-protest rules, which have been widely criticized by student unions and human rights groups as “authoritarian.” The university has stated it will not comment on individual cases, upholding its disciplinary processes and the students’ right to appeal.
