This section focuses on recent university initiatives addressing protests on
campus, reflecting the considerable attention this issue has received over the
past year. This is only an initial exploration of university initiatives. The next
phase of the Study will conduct a comprehensive audit to evaluate university
policies and processes to address racism holistically.
(a)
Universities Australia
UA is the peak body representing Australia's universities. UA works with its 39
member universities to ensure they meet the Threshold Requirements, including
promotion of equity and access. UA has been working closely with members,
including developing a sector-wide working group on antisemitism. 23
(b)
Group of Eight
The Group of Eight, representing the University of Western Australia, Monash
University, Australian National University, University of Adelaide, University of
Melbourne, UNSW, University of Queensland and University of Sydney, has made
public statements against racism in the context of antisemitism on campus:
•
Statement of Eight Principles on Demonstrations on Campus‘upholding rights of expression and peaceful assembly while rejecting any
form of hate or prejudice, including antisemitism and islamophobia’. 24
•
Berlin Statement- co-authoring international statement committing that
‘principles of freedom of speech and academic freedom are cherished and
remain upheld, but where antisemitism, islamophobia and racism in any
of its forms, as well intimidation and harassment, are never tolerated.’ 25
(c)
Examples of individual university initiatives
Responses vary across universities, but common elements include:
•
inclusion of a prohibition against racism in existing policies
•
stand-alone anti-racism policies
•
complaints mechanisms, including some specialist complaints services
•
support for wellbeing through counselling services
•
engagement with student groups.
In the context of antisemitism on campus, universities have expanded
counselling services, allocated safe spaces and made special consideration
provisions available for impacted students.
28