Concerns have arisen at Campion College in Sydney following revelations about the far-right views of two faculty members, Stephen McInerney and Stephen Chavura. Both academics have been accused of promoting white nationalist rhetoric while teaching at the college, which is known for its commitment to Catholic values and classical education. The college administration is currently investigating these allegations.
McInerney, who serves as the dean of studies, recently delivered a speech advocating for the formation of new political parties focused on the interests of “our people,” which he categorized as white Australians. In a controversial stance, he suggested that the historical White Australia Policy did not go far enough and proposed that white Australians consider living in separate neighborhoods as a form of “tactical retreat.” His remarks have drawn significant criticism and prompted a formal inquiry from the administration.
Chavura, a senior lecturer in history, has taken steps to establish an all-male club aimed at celebrating Anglo-Celtic culture. This group is intended to deter what he describes as “leftist thugs” from disrupting pro-Australia rallies. He has also made comments suggesting a preference for Anglo-Celtic immigrants over others, which has further fueled the controversy surrounding the college.
Paul Morrissey, the president of Campion College, stated, “I was not aware of the vast majority of the rhetoric or other things you have brought to my attention.” He confirmed that both McInerney and Chavura’s actions would be thoroughly investigated. Morrissey emphasized the college’s commitment to inclusivity, stating that “all people, no matter their background, race, or religion, are made to feel welcome at the college.”
The investigation comes as Campion College faces scrutiny over its connections to influential political and media figures. The college admits approximately 50 students each year and has strong ties to prominent individuals, including former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott and Gina Rinehart, for whom the college library is named. Additionally, the New South Wales and federal governments have each committed $5 million to support the college’s building initiatives.
McInerney, who previously served as deputy chief executive of the Ramsay Centre for Western Civilisation, has publicly praised controversial figures such as Enoch Powell, a British politician known for his anti-immigration rhetoric. In a podcast earlier this year, he referred to the White Australia Policy as “commonsensical” and suggested that it should be enshrined in the Australian Constitution.
On August 31, McInerney spoke at a March for Australia rally in Sydney, where he decried what he called an “unacceptable and radical transformation” of Australia’s racial and cultural character. He described descendants of immigrants from the British Isles and Europe as a new Australian ethnicity bound by “the crimson thread of blood.” His speech was shared on a platform called The Noticer, which has been criticized for its focus on the racial backgrounds of crime perpetrators.
Chavura, who is also a commentator for Sky News, has been vocal in his opposition to multiculturalism, labeling it as a “cancer” and a “poison.” He has sought to establish a group called Australia’s Sons, aiming to create a “standing force of hundreds of thousands of men” to defend Anglo-Celtic heritage. Chavura’s comments have included a preference for Anglo-Celtic names over those from other cultural backgrounds, raising concerns about his views on immigration and cultural integration.
In response to inquiries regarding his views, Chavura stated he would not describe himself as a “white nationalist” or “anti-immigrant,” despite expressing a desire for Anglo-Celtic Australians to regain a majority demographic in Australia. He maintained that he does not engage with neo-Nazi groups and emphasized his commitment to maintaining a respectful classroom environment.
As the investigation continues, the future of both McInerney and Chavura’s positions at Campion College remains uncertain. Morrissey has refrained from commenting on whether they will retain their roles during this inquiry. The situation has sparked widespread debate about the influence of far-right ideologies within educational institutions and the responsibilities of colleges to uphold inclusive values.
