Update: man arrested after antisemitic incident outside hearings
A 68-year-old man has been arrested after allegedly wearing a shirt displaying an offensive symbol outside the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion hearing venue in Sydney.
NSW Police said officers attached to Operation Shelter were patrolling outside a building on Clarence Street at about 11am on Wednesday when they saw the man allegedly wearing clothing displaying an offensive symbol on the front.
The incident occurred outside the Commission’s hearing venue at 83 Clarence Street, where public hearings into antisemitism in Australia are continuing.
Man in offensive shirt outside Royal Commission (Facebook)
Police initially issued the man with a move-on direction, which he complied with.
At about 2.45pm, the man attended Manly Police Station, where he was arrested by officers attached to Operation Shelter. He remained in custody on Wednesday afternoon while inquiries continued.
The shirt reportedly featured a swastika incorporating a Star of David alongside the words: “Antisemitism. Proud to be accused. Speak up!”
Before leaving the area, the man reportedly told media he regularly wore the shirt in Sydney’s CBD and claimed he was “proud” to do so. He reportedly said he did not realise he was outside the Royal Commission.
The incident drew condemnation from the Commission as hearings continued into rising antisemitism, intimidation and the impact of the December 2025 Bondi Beach terror attack during a Chanukah celebration that left 15 people dead.
In a statement, the Royal Commission said it was aware of the incident and strongly condemned the display.
“The Royal Commission is aware that this morning an individual wearing an antisemitic shirt was moved on by NSW Police from out the front of the Royal Commission hearing location,” the statement said.
“We understand the matter is being dealt with by NSW Police.
83 Clarence Street, Sydney
“The Royal Commission is appalled that such an item of clothing was worn in the vicinity of our hearing venue.”
The Commission said witness safety remained a central concern and reassured participants that security arrangements were in place throughout the hearings.
“Safety of witnesses is paramount to the Royal Commission. We want to reassure witnesses and those wishing to engage with the Royal Commission that safety protocols are in place.
“The Royal Commission is determined to investigate antisemitism in Australia without fear or intimidation.”
The inquiry has this week heard accounts from Jewish Australians describing hostility and fear in schools, workplaces, universities and public spaces since the October 7 attacks and the Bondi Beach massacre.
Among those giving evidence on Wednesday was a 13-year-old girl who had been caught in lockdown during the Bondi attack. She told the inquiry she continued to experience nightmares and anxiety months later.
The Royal Commission, established by the Albanese Government earlier this year and led by former High Court justice Virginia Bell AC SC, is examining antisemitism in Australia and broader concerns about social cohesion. Hearings in Sydney are scheduled to continue until May 15.
