Hearing Block 4: Universities

The Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion will hold its fourth hearing block in Melbourne, from Monday 13 July 2026 to Friday 17 July 2026. 

The hearing block will focus on antisemitism in Australian universities and examine:

  • Lived experiences of antisemitism and its impacts on Jewish students and academics at Australian universities. 
  • Responses by universities to combat antisemitism experienced by students and academics.
  • Reports, surveys and studies addressing the nature and prevalence of, and responses to, antisemitism at Australian universities and other educational institutions.

Universities are a key focus given their role as major public institutions where issues of inclusion, safety and freedom of expression intersect, and where evidence before the Commission has indicated instances of antisemitism affecting students and staff.

The Royal Commission received more than 20,000 submissions from 24 February to 14 June 2026—over a third from Victoria.

“Hearing Block 4 will hear from students, academics and educational institutions to understand the lived experiences, prevalence and impact of antisemitism in educational settings, and investigate institutional responses to these issues,” Commissioner Virginia Bell AC SC said. 

The focus of Hearing Block 4 reflects the Royal Commission’s Terms of Reference to investigate the nature and impact of antisemitism in Australia and to identify practical steps institutions can take to strengthen social cohesion. This hearing block will examine these issues in detail, including how universities are responding and what further measures may be required to ensure campuses remain safe, respectful and inclusive for all members of the community.

The Royal Commission will continue to publish the list of witnesses the day before they are due to give evidence on the Commission’s website. Members of the public can attend hearings in person at 11 Exhibition Street Melbourne or view the livestream of the public hearings on our website.

Hearings will continue in Melbourne from 20 to 24 July; details of Hearing Block 5 will be announced in coming weeks.