Statement about protest activity on Clayton campus

7 May 2024 update

A dedicated website has been created to keep our community up-to-date on the impacts of the Middle East conflict. We encourage you to visit the website regularly for the latest University information and updates.

6 May 2024 update

We are aware of a small group of predominantly non-Monash students who entered Monash University Clayton campus late on Sunday to disrupt the encampment. Over the course of roughly an hour, other members of the public (both pro and anti the encampment) arrived on site, and tensions increased. Given the potential for further escalation, Monash Security engaged Victoria Police, and the police arrived on site soon after.

To ensure the safety of all, Victoria Police assisted those not involved with the encampment to leave campus. No arrests were made and no injuries were reported or observed.

We have, and will continue to work with organisers of the encampment and relevant authorities to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all individuals.

Monash Security is proactively on-site to ensure the safety of all in our community, and will take any appropriate measures in cooperation with authorities, if the need arises.

Monash’s commitment to a diverse, inclusive and equitable community for all is a foundational principle for the development of a rich culture, where all members of the community are treated with fairness and respect. The University does not tolerate behaviour that is not in line with University policies such as the Community Safety and Security Policy and Equity, Diversity and Anti-discrimination Policy. This behaviour includes:

  • Disruption of University activity, including lectures, classes, research activity;
  • Occupation of a building;
  • Behaviour or messages that are racist including antisemitic or islamophobic, discriminatory, harassing, vilifying or victimising – as outlined in our anti-racism statement;
  • Unlawful behaviour or messages including those which are threatening or abusive;
  • Damage to property; and
  • Physical violence.

The University is investigating the incident and will take all available action.

1 May 2024: University statement about protest activity on Clayton campus

Monash University is aware that a group is exercising its right to protest and has started an encampment today (Wednesday 1 May) on the Lemon Scented Lawns at the Clayton campus.

The University’s priority is to ensure the wellbeing and safety of our community and to uphold our core principles of scholarly inquiry and academic freedom.

We are proud that Monash has a long history of, and is home to, a diverse range of views and lived experience, and these have always been expressed through planned activities, including peaceful protests.

However, the University does not tolerate behaviour that is not in line with University policies or procedures, or unacceptable conduct. This includes:

  • Disruption of University activity, including lectures, classes, research activity;
  • Occupation of a building;
  • Behaviour or messages that are racist including antisemitic or islamophobic, discriminatory, harassing, vilifying or victimising – as outlined in our anti-racism statement;
  • Unlawful behaviour or messages including those which are threatening or abusive;
  • Damage to property; and
  • Physical violence

We remain in close contact with our student and community leaders, and with staff, to ensure safety and security on campus and, importantly, to meet the academic and pastoral needs of our staff and students at this time.

Monash University has various support services to assist our community:

  • Staff can access the Employee Assistance Program on 1300 360 364.
  • Students who require support are encouraged to make an appointment with a counsellor.
  • Concerning, threatening and inappropriate behaviour can be reported to the University’s Safer Community Unit.
  • Security is available on 03 9902 7777 for assistance on campus or 03 9905 3333 for emergencies.
  • Download the Monash bSafe app for access to 24/7 counselling and support, direct contact with emergency services on and off campus and safety information