Merivale faces complaint over alleged keffiyeh ban at Jimmy’s Falafel
A national community legal service has lodged a complaint against Merivale, claiming six diners were turned away from Jimmy’s Falafel in Sydney’s CBD for wearing Palestinian scarves.
The Racial Justice Centre filed the complaint with the Australian Human Rights Commission under the Racial Discrimination Act 1975. It alleges that staff at Jimmy’s told patrons to remove their keffiyehs, traditional Palestinian scarves, as a condition of entry.
One complainant, who asked not to be named, said: “Initially I was confused because this restaurant serves falafels and other dishes that are traditional to my Palestinian heritage … I was singled out and treated as a security threat because of my cultural garment.”
Merivale did not provide comment to the Sydney Morning Herald but has previously said the decision was linked to safety concerns after the Harbour Bridge protest on August 3, which saw up to 300,000 pro-Palestine demonstrators march through the city. CCTV footage reportedly shows security turning people away during a 20-minute window when the group says tensions on
George Street spilled over towards its venues.
The complaint says those involved “left the restaurant feeling shocked, humiliated and distressed” and are seeking an apology, compensation and anti-racism training for staff.
Racial Justice Centre executive director Sarah Ibrahim said: “This complaint is a critical step in challenging discriminatory practices and ensuring that businesses are held accountable for their actions.”
If conciliation fails, the dispute could be taken to the Federal Court.
Jonathan Jackson, 3rd September 2025
