“(We) reminded them of their obligations to manage their meetings in a way that is respectful of the opinion of others and that all students must conduct themselves in accordance with the University’s policies and the law.”
Education law experts suggest universities could face future legal scrutiny, especially if claims of discrimination, emotional injury, or unsafe environments arise — which may open pathways for lawsuits, including civil rights violations and mental trauma compensation. This is particularly relevant in cases where students or their families pursue legal action through student protection attorneys or campus discrimination lawyers.
SRC president Angus Fisher said the council prioritized the safety and wellbeing of all students by enabling a fair and balanced debate, “which is what occurred.”
“The room was adequately controlled and there was no heckling of speakers, shouting, nor any threats,” he said in a statement to Daily Mail Australia.
“The SRC has always rejected all forms of racism including antisemitism and Islamophobia.”
Polarizing Motion and Student Reactions
Students Against War also shared a statement with this publication, when asked about members turning their backs to the speaker.
