Image: Credit Sky News
A 68-year-old man has been charged after allegedly wearing a T-shirt displaying a swastika outside public hearings for the Royal Commission into Antisemitism and Social Cohesion in Sydney’s CBD.
The incident occurred on Tuesday outside the Hilton Hotel, where the commission has been hearing evidence from members of the Jewish community about experiences of antisemitism in Australia. According to NSW Police, officers issued the man with a move-on direction before later arresting him nearby.
Police allege the shirt displayed a swastika alongside the words: “Anti-Semitism. Proud to be accused. Speak up!” Footage published by several media outlets showed the man speaking with reporters after being approached by officers.
In a statement, NSW Police said the man was charged with knowingly displaying by public act a Nazi symbol without excuse. He was granted conditional bail and is scheduled to appear at Downing Centre Local Court on June 18.
The Royal Commission into Antisemitism and Social Cohesion was established earlier this year following the Bondi terror attack in December 2025. Former High Court justice Virginia Bell is leading the inquiry, which is examining antisemitism in Australia and broader issues relating to social cohesion and extremism.
A spokesperson for the royal commission said they were aware of the incident and that the matter was being dealt with by NSW Police.
“The royal commission is appalled that such an item of clothing was worn in the vicinity of our hearing venue,” the spokesperson said.
“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.”
During this week’s hearings, witnesses have described experiences of harassment, abuse and intimidation. Testimony has included reports of antisemitic slurs in schools, threats against Jewish organisations and fears about public displays of Jewish identity.
The display of Nazi symbols was criminalised in New South Wales in 2022 under legislation banning the public display of symbols associated with Nazi ideology, except in limited circumstances such as education, art or journalism.
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