Lana Lam

A Federal Court judge ruled that the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra cancelled Jayson Gillham’s recital to manage anticipated reputational and business impacts after he criticised Israel’s actions in Gaza during a performance, not because of his political beliefs. Gillham’s remarks, delivered while introducing a music piece dedicated to Gaza journalists, prompted complaints and a disputed concert cancellation. The orchestra argued its stage was not a platform for personal political statements, while Gillham claimed he was exercising his legal workplace rights. The ruling followed a three-week trial involving multiple witnesses.