The University’s full statement is below. 

There’s been a lot of misinformation around this matter, and given some incorrect public commentary we believe it is important to provide broader context and to correct the record. 

Our complaints process

As a university, we’re required to assess all complaints we receive in a manner that’s procedurally fair and consistent with our policies. Where a complaint relates to student conduct, that includes notifying the student of the complaint made, explaining the relevant process, including the possible pathways for resolution, and inviting them to provide their response. We then consider the complaint and the student’s response before deciding next steps, including whether it would be appropriate to commence disciplinary action. 

That’s what we did in this case, after receiving multiple complaints about the display of a particular poster on our campus. 

Combined effect of language and imagery

When we notified the students involved of the complaints and the concerns raised with the University, we were clear it was the combined effect of the language and imagery used on the poster – including the use of what may be construed as blood splatters over the names of Israeli institutions and the Handala image – that may be inconsistent with University policies and codes of conduct, including in relation to the safety and wellbeing of members of the University community. 

At no point did the University make allegations of misconduct against the students involved, or threaten them with expulsion or suspension, as has been incorrectly claimed and reported. 

Outcome of our considerations

While the University does not typically comment on individual student outcomes, some misleading commentary being generated by certain student groups and other individuals means we are compelled to provide additional context to address some misrepresentations. 

We can confirm that, after careful and fair consideration of the poster and its particular context against applicable University policies and codes of conduct, we finalised the complaints and notified the students of the outcome last week.  

We found that although some interpret the Handala symbol as opposing Jewish self-determination, or being associated with violence, its meaning is contested and context-dependent. In the context of this poster, we considered its use not to breach University policy. 

However, we confirmed that the imagery on the poster, including the red slashes or smears, could reasonably be interpreted as signalling or condoning harm towards the named institutions and individuals associated with them. Material that has that effect, including material that contributes to fear, anxiety or exclusion within the University community, is inconsistent with students’ obligations under University policy.

The students’ conduct was found to fall short of the standards of behaviour expected by the University, and appropriate action was taken, including a direction to not use the specific imagery of blood splatter over institutional logos, or similar violent imagery on University lands again. 

Despite certain claims, recent protest activity and a petition had no impact on our decision.

Our commitment to freedom of speech and academic freedom

We remain absolutely committed to freedom of speech and academic freedom, including the rights of students and staff to engage in lawful political expression and protest on difficult and contested issues. At the same time, those freedoms exist alongside the University’s obligations to foster a safe, respectful and inclusive environment for all members of the community.

We recognise that these issues are deeply felt across our community and encourage respectful engagement, particularly where views differ strongly. 

If anyone in our community feels unsafe or witnesses antisemitic, discriminatory or harassing behaviour of any sort, we have a support network in place so they can alert us and we can take action.