Cultural diversity and anti-racism

We are stronger when our differences are viewed as opportunities to learn and grow.

With more than 100 countries represented in our student population, we value and celebrate diversity on our campuses.

Regardless of beliefs, language spoken, religion or cultural background, our vision is for all staff and students to feel they belong here and are empowered to achieve their full potential.

We recognise that cultivating a collaborative mindset where a range of perspectives, disciplines and expertise is respected and given a seat at the table is essential to shaping our values-based culture.

The University of Newcastle offers a range of support for international students. There are more than 100 student-run groups that you can be part of, including sporting, academic, social, cultural, and faith-based groups.

Our dedicated international student support team,is always available to help, no matter where you are in your journey.

Anti-racism

At the University of Newcastle, we stand firmly against racism in all its forms. We recognise that racism is a pervasive issue that is endemic in our society and embedded in Australian history and contemporary mainstream culture. Our commitment to fostering an inclusive and culturally responsive university requires us all to actively confront and dismantle racism.

Conversations about racism can be confronting. However, engaging in an open dialogue with those who experience racism is an essential first step to identify and combat racist practices and systems. It is no longer appropriate to simply state zero tolerance to racism in principle without meaningful action and accountability. If leaders are not willing to engage in anti-racism in practice, then undisclosed and unchallenged racism will continue to grow.

We believe that every member of our university community, including students, college staff, administrators and affiliates, deserve to work and learn in an organisation that is free from racism. We acknowledge the historical and ongoing injustices faced by marginalised groups, particularly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, international and refugee populations, but can also come in other forms of racism including Islamophobia and Antisemitism. We are dedicated to promoting equity and justice through education, dialogue, and mutual respect. We acknowledge that racism exists in society and therefore our institution and that proactive collective actions are necessary to address this.

We invite every member of our community to join us in this vital work.

To uphold our anti-racist obligations, over time we commit to:

• Engagement in open and honest conversations about race and racism, creating safe spaces for dialogue that encourage diverse perspectives.
• Investment in training and education programs that raise awareness about racism, privilege, and inclusion.
• Implementation of comprehensive systems to monitor, measure and respond to racism. This includes culturally responsive accessible methods of reporting and making formal complaints.
• Provision of educational resources and support for students and staff, ensuring that their voices are heard and valued within our community.
• Development and implementation of an anti-racism policy framework that actively promotes anti-discrimination and embeds these core principles throughout all university practices and policies.
• Regular evaluation and assessment of institutional practices and community climate to identify racism and address areas of concern in a robust and transparent manner.