The disciplinary processes at the University of Melbourne are under intense scrutiny as two students face expulsion and two others suspension for their participation in a pro-Palestine office occupation last October. These severe recommendations, if upheld, would mark a significant escalation in the university’s response to pro-Palestine student activism in Australia since the 2023 demonstrations. The students involved are preparing appeals, with one voicing concerns about a lack of impartiality in the university’s decision.
The incident in question involved a group of around 20 activists 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.