Deakin University, located in Victoria, Australia, has requested students to dismantle their pro-Palestine encampment on campus. The deputy vice-chancellor, Kerrie Parker, emphasized the university's priority of ensuring safety and security for all campus users. This request follows concerns raised by Victoria police about potential violence if the protests continue to grow.
The encampment, which started at the University of Sydney and spread to other Australian universities, was expected to end by a certain date, but a small group continued their occupation past that time. Deakin University had already closed off the area with barricades due to what they described as "utterly unacceptable" behavior by some protestors, including hate speech.
In response, the organizers of the Deakin Gaza Solidarity Encampment criticized the university's actions as "Orwellian" and reiterated their demands, including divestment from Israel and meeting with the vice-chancellor. They announced plans for a rally to defend the encampment.
Politicians and organizations have varied responses. The shadow education minister praised Deakin's actions, emphasizing the importance of a safe learning environment. The prime minister stressed the right to protest but also the need for respect. The Executive Council of Australian Jewry welcomed the dismantling of the encampment.
Other universities have not followed suit, with the Group of Eight indicating they would not shut down protests unless they disrupted core university activities or broke the law.
Meanwhile, support for the protests is evident, with over 600 academics and university staff signing an open letter in support of student protests, emphasizing the importance of free speech on campuses and rejecting claims of antisemitism in the protests.
The situation remains contentious, with Deakin University yet to confirm if they will involve the police. They have reiterated their commitment to upholding their code of conduct and not tolerating unacceptable behavior or language on campus.