Similar actions have been reported at other Australian universities, highlighting a broader trend of suppressing pro-Palestinian activism amid rising tensions.

The Australian Labor government, led by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, has faced accusations of stifling opposition to Israel's actions, including proposing laws to curb anti-Zionist speech on campuses.

The University of Melbourne has expelled two students and suspended two others for their involvement in pro-Palestinian protests, signaling a significant crackdown on political free speech.

Despite strong legal backing, university rules prohibit the students from having representation in their appeal process, limiting their legal team's involvement.

Activists argue that ongoing support for Israel's actions and the repression of free speech reflect systemic issues within the Labor party and broader imperialist agendas.

Tensions at the University of Melbourne escalated earlier in 2025 with ongoing pro-Palestinian protests and the establishment of a tent city on campus.

This disciplinary action follows a protest on October 9, 2024, where students demonstrated against academic Steven Prawer, who has connections to pro-Israeli projects.

During the protest, students chanted and displayed pro-Palestinian symbols, leading to police intervention after a 90-minute sit-in.

Critics view the crackdown on these protests as part of a larger assault on democratic rights, fueled by anti-war sentiment and opposition to capitalist policies.

In response to the protests, Prawer condemned the demonstrators as ignorant, claiming the backlash was rooted in antisemitism, complicating the narrative around the protests.

Vice Chancellor Emma Johnston upheld the expulsions and suspensions, which have drawn criticism for infringing on students' rights to protest.

The expelled students have garnered notable legal support, including Greg Barns and Rob Stary, who have a history of representing high-profile clients in controversial cases.