On 27 September 2024, Mr Jad Salamah attended his graduation at Condell Park High School wearing a double‑sided scarf depicting the Palestinian flag and keffiyeh. He was asked by school staff to remove the scarf which he declined to do. As a result of not following that instruction, he was precluded from attending his school formal.

Mr Salamah commenced legal proceedings against the State of New South Wales alleging racial discrimination. The State denied the allegations.

Following mediation the parties have reached a confidential settlement and the matter is now resolved. The Department regrets Mr Salamah’s experience.

The Department embraces cultural diversity. We do this in part through Harmony Day. Harmony Day is an important celebration of Australia’s cultural diversity.

In public schools we celebrate inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging for all Australians, including the traditional custodians of the land to those who have come from many cultures around the world. The ongoing theme for Harmony Day in public education is that everyone belongs and is marked by a time of cultural respect and celebration, including the wearing of cultural attire, display of cultural heritage, cuisine and tradition. This includes the wearing of cultural garments, including, but not limited to, the Hanbok, Idio, Kaftan, Keffiyeh, Kilt, Tallit, Yukata, cultural headdress, feather cloaks and garlands. To similar effect, at Year 12 school formals, students may wish to wear attire appropriate to their culture.