ACU Faces Backlash Over Anti-Abortion Speech at Graduation

The Australian Catholic University is offering refunds and counseling after Joe de Bruyn's controversial address led to a student and staff walkout.

The Australian Catholic University awarded an honorary doctorate to Joe de Bruyn, who used his graduation speech to denounce abortion and same-sex marriage.
De Bruyn's remarks, including a comparison of abortion to World War II casualties, prompted a mass walkout by students and staff at the Melbourne ceremony.
Vice-Chancellor Zlatko Skrbis confirmed the university was aware of the speech's content beforehand and had advised De Bruyn to reconsider his remarks.
In response to the controversy, ACU is refunding graduation fees and providing counseling services to affected students and staff.
Student and staff groups have criticized the university for allowing De Bruyn to speak, citing previous concerns about the institution's stance on LGBTIQ+ rights.