Julian Leeser has accused university vice-chancellors of being 'spineless' over antisemitism failures as a royal commission continues its hearings, while Australia's foreign affairs department investigates whether any Australians were affected by a deadly fire at a pub in Bangkok.
Key facts
- Julian Leeser accused 'spineless' university vice-chancellors of failures on antisemitism.
- Higher education chiefs, academics and students are giving evidence at the royal commission on antisemitism and social cohesion.
- At least 27 people were killed and dozens more injured in a fire at a pub in Bangkok overnight.
- The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Dfat) is investigating whether any Australians were affected.
Higher education leaders, academics and students are appearing before the latest block of hearings at Australia’s royal commission on antisemitism and social cohesion, according to the Guardian. The hearings come as debate intensifies over how universities have responded to concerns about antisemitism on campus.
Amid the proceedings, Julian Leeser accused university vice-chancellors of being ‘spineless’ and of failing to address antisemitism adequately. His criticism places renewed pressure on the higher education sector as it faces scrutiny from the commission.
Separately, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Dfat) is investigating whether any Australians were affected by a deadly fire at a pub in Bangkok overnight. The Guardian reported that at least 27 people were killed in the blaze and dozens more were injured.
A Dfat spokesperson said: ‘Australians will be shocked to hear of the terrible loss of life in the restaurant fire in Bangkok. Our sincere condolences are with all those affected.’
The spokesperson added that Australian officials ‘are making urgent enquiries with local authorities to determine whether any Australians were affected,’ and said the department ‘stands ready to provide consular assistance.’
The developments were reported as part of the Guardian’s live news coverage, which also touched on the property market, auction clearances and other domestic news items.
Why it matters
The royal commission's examination of universities highlights ongoing national concern over antisemitism and how institutions respond to it. The Bangkok fire, meanwhile, underscores the risks facing Australians travelling abroad and the government's role in providing consular support during overseas emergencies.
Frequently asked questions
How many people died in the Bangkok fire?
According to the Guardian, at least 27 people were killed in the blaze at a pub in Bangkok, and dozens more were injured.
Are any Australians known to be affected by the Bangkok fire?
Dfat said it is making urgent enquiries with local authorities to determine whether any Australians were affected, and stands ready to provide consular assistance.
What is the royal commission examining?
The royal commission on antisemitism and social cohesion is hearing evidence from higher education chiefs, academics and students in its latest block of hearings.