The Australian National University (ANU) will be brought before Senate estimates to address its handling of anti-Semitism on campus.

Opposition education spokeswoman Sarah Henderson announced that ANU administrators would face rigorous questioning about the reported increase in hate and incitement on campus.

This move comes in response to recent events, including disciplinary action taken by the university following allegations of Nazi-inspired gestures at a meeting where Jewish students were addressing anti-Semitism. Furthermore, some protesters had expressed unconditional support for Hamas on the radio.

“While ANU belatedly ordered the removal of the pro-Palestinian encampment, the protesters have merely moved their tents to another location on campus,” Senator Henderson stated. She expressed concern that universities are failing to take appropriate action against students and staff who engage in intimidation and vilification.

In recent weeks, there have been reports of rising anti-Semitism at universities across Australia. Incidents include pro-Palestinian protesters disrupting classes, occupying buildings, displaying terrorist flags, and chanting “intifada.”

Jewish groups and the Coalition have criticised the Labor government for its diluted inquiry into campus racism, announced in the budget, and have called for a judicial inquiry into campus anti-Semitism. Senator Henderson emphasized the need for an inquiry to hold all university administrators accountable.

“While the questioning of ANU will shine a light on its policies and operations, a judicial inquiry into anti-Semitism at universities would hold all university administrators to account,” she said. Henderson also plans to interrogate the Albanese government’s approach to anti-Semitism on campus, including Education Minister Jason Clare’s perceived support for the encampments.

This announcement followed tense scenes at ANU, where protesters were asked to vacate the encampment by a Tuesday noon deadline.

In an email to all staff and students, ANU deputy vice-chancellor Grady Venville thanked the protesters for cooperating with the university and ACT Policing to ensure safety on campus. She also indicated openness to negotiate on demands regarding university investments, particularly those related to socially responsible investment policies.

Meanwhile, Labor is expected to face challenges from the Greens on its stance on Palestinian statehood.

Greens leader Adam Bandt plans to propose a motion for Australia to recognise the state of Palestine, joining over 140 countries.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong recently stated that Australia would recognise a Palestinian state “when the time is right,” citing the need for progress in Palestinian Authority reforms, commitment to peace, and engagement in meaningful political processes.

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