Australian Human Rights Commission Respect at Uni Interim Report December 2024 engagements throughout the Study to ensure a wide range of views are part of the solutions for racism in universities. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner and the work of the Commission brings First Nations perspectives to the heart of understanding and responding to racism. From the Bringing Them Home Report to more recent landmark reports such as the Wiyi Yani U Thangani Report raising the voices of First Nations women and girls, the Commission has deep experience in working with First Nations communities on sensitive issues. The Wiyi Yani U Thangani11 Report also particularly highlights the systemic racism and inequalities experienced by First Nations women and girls in Australia, including in relation to education. The Commission can draw on this expertise and community connections to encourage First Nations staff and students to participate in the survey. The Commission also has extensive experience with the university sector, leveraging expertise and networks from the Changing the Course: National Report on Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment at Australian Universities.12 Investigating workplace culture and human rights issues are core areas of the Commission’s work. Large projects have included the Review into the Treatment of Women in the Australia Defence Force 13 and Set the Standard: Report on the Independent Review into Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplaces.14 These projects showcase the Commission’s ability to work constructively with large institutions on sensitive issues, centre lived experience and ensure a traumainformed approach to dealing with any disclosures of discrimination or abuse. The Commission’s policy expertise and stakeholder engagement strengths will ensure that the Study can inquire into a broad range of issues, accessing relevant information as required. 1.2 Study Objectives and Scope The Terms of Reference (Appendix I) outline the Study's objectives, scope, consultation, governance and timing. (a) Aim and objectives The Study will comprehensively investigate the prevalence and impact of racism in universities, establish a baseline of racism experiences and develop recommendations to create a safe, respectful and inclusive environment for all university students and staff. 15