The Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion has heard evidence that Australian universities failed to adequately protect Jewish students and staff from the psychological impact of pro-Palestinian protests.

University leaders admitted they could have done more to address the trauma caused by the Israel-Palestine tensions, with examples including students being asked for death certificates of relatives killed by Israeli forces.

Mary Russell, CEO of the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Authority, highlighted the lack of trauma-informed approaches in academic settings, noting significant differences in circumstances when family members died at the hands of the Israeli Defense Force or Hamas.While universities have policies for protecting Jewish individuals, debates continue over balancing free speech and academic freedom.Monash University's David Slucki argued that cultural changes within institutions are needed rather than legislative measures.

The commission also heard from pro-Palestinian students defending their right to protest, with Jewish activist Yasmine Johnson emphasizing the right to use violence against oppression.The government plans to strengthen university governance standards, including anti-racism protocols.These hearings aim to address systemic failures in university leadership regarding antisemitism and ensure meaningful reforms.