Diversity & inclusion

Victoria University is committed to equal opportunity, cultural diversity and social inclusion.

We value our diverse university community and strive to create a supportive environment that enables access and promotes inclusion.

Cultural diversity

Cultural diversity strategy, initiatives & resources

We value cultural diversity and are dedicated to creating a connected and inclusive community. Our Cultural Diversity Strategy frames this commitment.

Accessibility

VU strives to be a leader in inclusivity and accessibility. We guide and support students to achieve their career aspirations through personalised, flexible and well-supported learning opportunities.

Our fourth accessibility action plan outlines our commitment to removing barriers to access and participation for students with a health condition or disability. It focusses on five action areas:

culture of inclusiveness
student support & engagement
learning and teaching
physical access
digital information and services.

Read VU's Accessibility Action Plan 2016 – 2020.

VU disability services assisted me in developing a plan to support my needs while maintaining fairness.

Aaron Lethlean — Diploma of Nursing, Bachelor of Nursing

Read Aaron's story

Respect & Responsibility

We have a zero tolerance for violence in any form, including violence against women.

In 2016, we launched a three-year Preventing Violence Against Women Ten Point Plan to improve the University’s awareness, prevention and response to sexual violence.

Preventing Violence Against Women Ten Point Plan

The ten point plan draws on international best practice in violence against women, and has been developed with input from staff and students at the University, including those who have experienced sexual violence, as well as external experts in the field.

Promote gender equity across the Institution.
Provide individual support to those affected by violence.
Further develop policies, procedures and codes of conduct to ensure that the expectations of both staff and students in responding to and preventing violence against women are clear.
Build staff and student knowledge and skills in issues pertaining to violence against women and its prevention.
Ensure safe campus environments for all students, staff and visitors.
Develop communications material to raise awareness of issues pertaining to violence against women and the role of men in taking action to prevent it.
Develop leadership roles of students and staff in contributing to the prevention of violence against women.
Develop academic leadership to support current and new research and teaching endeavours pertaining to violence against women.
Build partnerships with communities, the public and private sectors to support collaborative action to prevent violence against women.
Monitor, evaluate and report on outcomes achieved.

Read VU's Preventing Violence Against Women Ten Point Plan.

Respect. Now. Always.

VU supports the Respect. Now. Always campaign that is dedicated to providing a safe environment for students and staff on campus.

It builds on work done by Australian universities to develop policies, reporting procedures and support services.

Discrimination, harassment & bullying contacts

Our experienced Discrimination, Harassment, Bullying (DHB) Contact Officers are trained to help VU’s staff and students. Contact a DHB Officer if you have been subject to or witnessed:

discrimination
harassment
sexual harassment
vilification harassment
bullying
victimisation.

DHB Officers can provide you with information and support on:

VU’s policies and procedures for staff and students
options available under policy to manage and solve issues
Student Complaints Resolution Policy and the Staff Issue and Complaint Resolution Policy
referral avenues suitable to you.

To find out more about our DHB Officers email heather.braden@vu.edu.au.