The Education Department Secretary emphasized that universities must uphold the freedom of academic staff and students to express their opinions under legislation. The federal Education Department reiterated that freedom of speech is protected at Australian universities, despite concerns about anti-semitic messaging at pro-Palestinian demonstrations on campus.
During a Budget Estimates hearing on June 6, Department Secretary Tony Cook discussed the implementation of freedom of speech in universities. He mentioned that the TEQSA ensures that every university has a freedom of speech and academic freedom code or policy in place as part of their regulatory activities.
While universities are required to allow freedom of expression, the secretary clarified that this does not protect hate speech or discrimination based on race, including under section 18C of the Racial Discrimination Act. The Attorney General has advised universities on language use and indicated plans to introduce new legislation against hate speech.
Recent protests by pro-Palestinian students at Australian universities have raised concerns about harassment and intimidation of Jewish students and staff. Some institutions targeted include the Australian National University, University of Queensland, University of Melbourne, and the University of Sydney. Tensions and conflicts at these protests have prompted university authorities to intervene and disband the encampments.
Education Assistant Minister Anthony Chisholm stated that Education Minister Jason Clare has actively engaged with tertiary stakeholders, including TEQSA, university chancellors, Jewish students, and teaching staff, to address the issue of anti-semitism. Minister Clare has emphasized the importance of upholding student codes of conduct to ensure safety on campus.
Universities have the authority to remove individuals from their grounds if necessary to maintain safety. Minister Clare’s priority is to ensure the safety of staff and students on campus, and he has communicated this clearly to vice-chancellors. The government supports the right to protest but emphasizes the need for universities to enforce their policies to keep students safe. Please rewrite this sentence.
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