A statement by University of Sydney Chancellor David Thodey AO, and Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Mark Scott.

The University of Sydney Student Representative Council’s decision to allow a ‘Globalise the Intifada’ ticket for last week’s election was totally unacceptable.

We reject the contention that this phrase is innocuous. The deliberately provocative use of this slogan has caused – and continues to cause – overwhelming distress to members of our University community. These hateful campaigns must stop. 

We unequivocally oppose hate speech and the use of any terms or slogans that could be readily construed as inciting violence – and will remove signs or symbols when or if this occurs. 

We deplore the manipulation of the recent election campaign – and the use of posters and banners – to spread hurtful and distressing language across campus. 

It is intolerable that any public events and activities at the University of Sydney should lead to an apprehension of violence, leaving staff and students feeling uneasy or unsafe on campus.

The University will be issuing formal notices of serious and material concern under our existing disciplinary policies, as and if required – action will be taken against students or staff who are found to have breached our policies. Several investigations are already underway. 

This week, the University will commission independent reviews into matters arising from the SRC’s actions, that will focus on:

1. A review of campus security to ensure appropriate measures are in place to protect everyone in the University community. In addition to our regular briefings, we will also seek further contact with police and federal intelligence and counter-terrorism agencies.
2. An assessment of the current affiliation and funding arrangements for student representative groups to ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, and psychosocial safety requirements.
3. An assessment of current staff and student codes of conduct to ensure they adequately reflect our commitment to a safe and welcoming environment, in which there is no place for harassment, victimisation or intimidation.

The findings of these reviews will be considered by the Chancellor’s Advisory Committee on Social Cohesion, and by the University Senate.