Allegations of foreign interference have ignited across Australia’s independent media and public forums, following revelations that Israeli-linked lobbying groups were allegedly behind a campaign to pressure The Star Casino Gold Coast into cancelling the upcoming Free Speech Summit and Independent Media Awards, slated for July 19–20.
The high-profile event organised by the Australian National Review (ANR.News) in collaboration with FreeSpeechSummit.com.au was expected to host more than 20 international speakers, including journalists, whistleblowers, doctors, and political commentators. With thousands registered to attend and a livestream audience anticipated to reach millions, the summit had positioned itself as a major platform for open dialogue and dissenting views.
However, organisers say a targeted campaign of intimidation and pressure, allegedly originating from Israeli-aligned advocacy groups, ultimately forced the venue’s withdrawal. According to reports, speakers were bombarded with harassing emails, and The Star, a publicly listed company with investment ties to entities like Vanguard, which has reported financial links to Israeli networks pulled out at the last minute.
“This is a blatant case of foreign interference on Australian soil,” said Jamie McIntyre, founder of ANR and host of the summit. “Israel is the only nation actively trying to shut this event down. It’s not about hate speech it’s about silencing critical discussions on media control, censorship, and foreign influence.”
Multiple invited speakers, some of whom chose to remain anonymous due to the volume of harassment received, described coordinated efforts to force them to withdraw. Tactics included veiled threats, accusations of promoting hate, and calls for public disaprvoal of the event.
“The core issue here is sovereignty,” one international guest stated. “Since when does a foreign government or lobby get to decide who Australians can listen to?” In response to the cancellation, organisers have relocated the summit to a private venue on the Gold Coast, citing security concerns and the need to shield participants from further targeting.
“We are not backing down,” said McIntyre. “This proves exactly why the summit matters. If the truth is that dangerous to some, Australians deserve to hear it even more.”
The situation has triggered renewed debate over the influence of foreign lobbying in Australian domestic affairs, with critics calling for a government inquiry into whether The Star’s decision was the result of undue external pressure possibly in breach of Australia’s sovereignty and democratic principles.
Though the original venue has fallen through, organisers confirm that the Free Speech Summit and Independent Media Awards will still proceed on the original dates, with a confidential location shared only with verified attendees and media.
“This isn’t just about one event,” McIntyre warned. “It’s about whether Australians are still free to speak — or whether powerful overseas interests now control the conversation.”