MinterEllison Distances Itself from Sydney Biennale Amidst DJ Haram Controversy

Law firm MinterEllison has requested the removal of its logo from the Sydney Biennale’s list of major partners following a speech by DJ Haram that sparked widespread criticism and a police investigation. The firm, a long-time pro bono legal advisor to the Biennale, sought to distance itself from views expressed during the opening night performance on March 13th, 2026.

Background to the Controversy

DJ Haram, also known as Zubeyda Muzeyyen, delivered a speech before her set at White Bay Power Station, expressing solidarity with Palestine and criticizing Israel. She used phrases such as “oppose the Zio-Australian-Epstein empire” and dedicated her performance to pro-Palestine activists, including Randa Abdel-Fattah [1]. The speech, which included the phrase “glory to all our martyrs,” drew condemnation from Jewish groups in Australia and New South Wales Premier Chris Minn [1].

Police Investigation

The New South Wales Police are investigating DJ Haram’s comments for potential breaches of racial hate laws and the Commonwealth offence of advocating for terrorism [4]. The investigation was initiated following a complaint from the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies, whose president, David Ossip, labeled the “Zio-Australian-Epstein empire” reference as antisemitic [1].

MinterEllison’s Response

MinterEllison, which has provided pro bono legal advice to the Biennale for over 20 years, stated its intention to prevent “any association with or endorsement of” DJ Haram’s views [2]. The firm was listed as a major partner on the Biennale’s website as recently as Tuesday, March 17th, 2026 [2].

Adelaide Writers’ Week Boycott and Resignations

Separately, the 2026 Adelaide Writers’ Week was cancelled following a mass boycott by writers protesting the Adelaide Festival board’s decision to cancel the appearance of author Randa Abdel-Fattah. The board deemed her appearance “not culturally sensitive” following the 2025 Bondi Beach shooting [1]. Approximately 180 participants withdrew from the event, and all members of the Adelaide Festival board, except one, resigned. Louise Adler, the director of Adelaide Writers’ Week, also resigned in disagreement with the board’s decision [1]. The Adelaide Festival later issued an apology to Abdel-Fattah and invited her to speak at the 2027 event [1].