Strengthening our commitment to anti-racism and cultural safety

UOW deeply values the unique perspectives and contributions of people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

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We’re proud to share that UOWs Anti-Racism and Cultural Safety Policy was recently updated to better reflect our commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all staff and students, regardless of cultural background.

This Policy applies to the University community and should be read with the Code of Conduct and Student Conduct Rules.

UOW’s policy update coincides with the Racism@Uni survey run by the Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) which is a landmark project examining the prevalence, nature, and impact of racism in Australian universities. The Commission will report its findings and provide recommendations to the Australian Government and universities to help make campuses safer and more inclusive for everyone.

The University recognises that all people have the right to be treated with respect and compassion; equally, all people have the responsibility to act with the same respect and compassion towards each other. 

Racial discrimination, harassment or vilification of students, staff, affiliates or visitors will not be tolerated.  

The University rejects all forms of racism and is committed to its elimination by creating an environment that actively embraces the diversity and lived experiences of staff and students from different backgrounds. This includes not only their background but also family, cultural heritage, religion, history and beliefs. UOW aims to uphold the rights of all members of the University community to enjoy an experience with the University that is free from racism.  

Resources and training 

• Let's Talk About Racism | Racism. It Stops With Me
• Anti-racism training (e-learning): Australian Human Rights Commission   
• Culturally Inclusive Classrooms: Murdoch University (PDF)
• Amplifying M Voices podcast series 

Get involved

We encourage all members of the UOW community to:  

• Engage with the updated policy, participate in training, and explore the available resources noted above.  
• Take a moment and complete the Racism@Uni survey.  
• Raise any complaints (including anonymous complaints) via the Complaints Management Centre.  

Together, we can create a university culture where everyone feels safe, respected, and has a true sense of belonging. 

 Support for students

• UOW's Safe and Respectful Communities (SARC)
• UOW's counselling services
• Transcultural Mental Health Centre NSW: for people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities.
• 13YARN: Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander crisis support

Further information

For more information, visit Cultural Diversity at UOW. Alternatively you can contact EDI-Team@uow.edu.au