In recent months, more academics, healthcare workers, and professionals across Australia are finding themselves under scrutiny for one thing: speaking up for human rights—especially in support of Palestine.
But here’s the truth every professional should know:
Human rights advocacy is lawful in Australia.
Speaking out against injustice, supporting oppressed communities, or calling for accountability under international law is not only a moral duty—it’s a legally protected right.
Yet, many complaints made against professionals are not rooted in law. They are intimidation tactics meant to silence your voice.
📄 That’s why AMAN has created a factsheet specifically for you—to guide you through how to respond to such complaints safely, confidently, and within your rights.
Doctors, nurses, psychologists, and health sector professionals
Social workers, educators, and counsellors
Anyone facing workplace pressure for their human rights advocacy
What Should You Do if a Complaint Is Made?
Stay Calm
Advocacy for human rights—including the rights of Palestinians—is not racial vilification. It’s legal and protected under Australian and international law.
Request Full Information Ask your employer or institution:
Review and Respond Thoughtfully
Use AMAN’s guide to assess whether your speech breaches any policies.
Know that criticism of a state, military, or ideology is not the same as targeting people based on race or religion.
Seek Expert Help
Contact your union or a workplace lawyer.
Reach out to the Islamophobia Register Australia.
Document everything.
Know Your Legal Protections
Political Belief Is Protected In VIC, ACT, QLD, and TAS, it’s unlawful to discriminate against someone based on political views.
Public Interest Expression Is Lawful Criticism made in good faith and in the public interest is protected.
Defamation and Harassment Remedies Exist If a complaint is made public and affects your reputation, or if it becomes drawn-out without basis, you may have legal recourse.
What If You’re in the Public Service or Health Sector?
Be aware of any workplace policies around public commentary and symbols.
Policies must be reasonable, consistent, and proportionate.
If non-Palestinian cultural expressions are allowed, similar expressions should be too.
📄Get the Full Factsheet The AMAN factsheet gives you practical steps, legal context, and expert guidance in clear language. It is designed to protect and empower professionals who are being unfairly targeted for standing up for human rights.
