A high-profile Palestinian Australian academic and author has initiated legal proceedings against the organisers of the 2025 Bendigo Writers Festival, alleging discrimination based on her political beliefs and activities. Dr. Randa Abdel-Fattah has lodged a complaint with the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT), naming the Greater Bendigo City Council and festival sponsor La Trobe University as respondents.

The legal challenge arises from events leading up to the now-postponed 2025 festival. Dr. Abdel-Fattah was scheduled to speak at the literary event about her acclaimed book, 'Discipline'. However, just days before opening night, a new code of conduct was issued to participating authors. This document sparked significant controversy, with more than 50 writers withdrawing from the festival in protest over what they perceived as censorship concerns.

Michael Bradley, managing partner at Marque Lawyers and Dr. Abdel-Fattah's legal representative, asserts that the controversial code of conduct was a thinly veiled attempt to exclude his client. “The code was, in effect, a mask for getting rid of Randa because they knew she wouldn't agree to it, particularly as it included a contested definition of antisemitism she was required to sign up to,” Mr. Bradley stated. He further claimed the document was “designed to exclude her on the basis of their perception of her political beliefs or potential activity.”

The events leading to the dispute also involved external pressure. Prior to the festival, La Trobe University reportedly received correspondence from a group of Jewish academics expressing concerns regarding Dr. Abdel-Fattah's scheduled appearance on a sponsored panel. Subsequent communications revealed that the university conveyed 'community safety' concerns to the Greater Bendigo City Council and suggested the inclusion of a 'highly skilled and experienced moderator' for Dr. Abdel-Fattah's session.

Following a comprehensive review of the planned 2025 event amidst the widespread author withdrawals, the Greater Bendigo City Council ultimately decided to cancel the festival for the year, with plans to reinstate it in 2027. La Trobe University Vice-Chancellor Theo Farrell recently confirmed that the university has no current plans to be involved in future iterations of the festival, instead exploring alternative avenues to support cultural life within the Bendigo community.

Dr. Abdel-Fattah is seeking significant remedies through her legal action, including financial compensation, a public apology from both organisations, and a firm commitment to upholding freedom of political expression in future events. Mr. Bradley highlighted the profound impact of the incident on his client's career and reputation. “It had direct ongoing effects in terms of book sales, but also reputationally it further entrenched this narrative that's been plugged for years now, that she is some kind of persona non grata in public spaces,” he explained.

He underscored the gravity of Dr. Abdel-Fattah’s decision to pursue legal action, indicating it was not a step taken lightly. “It is indicative of how much damage has been done to her, and she's kind of had enough, so she's made the big decision to fight back.”

When approached for comment on the ongoing legal matter, the Greater Bendigo City Council declined to issue a statement. La Trobe University has also been contacted for their response.