Melbourne University’s WiFi Tracking Under Scrutiny Amidst Student Disciplinary Action

The University of Melbourne’s use of WiFi tracking to identify protesters is coming under scrutiny amidst disciplinary action against students involved in a pro-Palestine office occupation last October. Two students face expulsion and two suspension, a potentially unprecedented move against pro-Palestine activists in Australia since 2023. One student revealed her presence was identified through WiFi data, raising privacy concerns.
The disciplinary action stems from an incident where around 20 individuals occupied an academic’s office for about 90 minutes. Their goal was to urge the university to end its partnerships with Israeli universities, aligning with the global boycott, divestment, and sanctions movement. Footage distributed on social media showed protesters entering the office with their faces covered.
The university has alleged harassment and intimidation of staff, along with property damage, including placing signs and stickers on university items and writing on personal belongings. The students, however, assert that their demonstration was peaceful and politically motivated, and that they made efforts to minimize disruption by informing those present and offering to turn down music.
This revelation about WiFi tracking adds another layer of controversy to the university’s recently implemented anti-protest rules, which have been widely criticized as “repressive” and “authoritarian.” The university has stated it will not comment on individual cases, upholding its disciplinary processes and the students’ right to appeal.