Universities of Melbourne and Sydney tell commission how antisemitism and racism policies have improved
University of Sydney Vice-Chancellor Mark Scott testified before a royal commission regarding the university's handling of pro-Palestinian encampments in 2024. He acknowledged failures in protecting the psychosocial safety of Jewish students and staff and noted improvements in institutional policies.
Why it matters
The testimony highlights the ongoing challenges universities face in balancing free speech, protest rights, and the safety of minority groups on campus.
Mark Scott told the royal commission he was not aware of any significant security risk. ( ABC News )
University of Sydney vice-chancellor Mark Scott says antisemitism training he received following pro-Palestinian encampments in 2024 helped him understand just how distressing the period was for Jewish staff and students.
Mr Scott told a royal commission his institution has since improved complaints processes and its policies on antisemitism and racism.
The fourth block of the commission's hearings focusing on Australian universities continues tomorrow.
Link copied Share Share article University of Sydney vice-chancellor Mark Scott has admitted he did not adequately protect the "psychosocial" safety of Jewish students and staff during pro-Palestinian encampments.
Professor Scott gave evidence to the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion on Wednesday about his handling of the encampments that sprang up on the front lawn of the university's Camperdown campus between April and June 2024.
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