In summary

Swinburne's Vice-Chancellor Professor Pascale Quester AO has written to all members of the Swinburne community following the release of the Racism@Uni survey results and recommendations.

Today, findings from the national Racism@Uni survey were released by the Australian Government.

The survey examined the prevalence, nature and impact of racism at Australian universities, capturing the experiences of students and staff across the country.

The results are challenging and make for confronting reading. Across Australia, more than 76,000 students and staff have described experiences of hurt, exclusion and harm.

At Swinburne, we are committed to promoting a culture of inclusion, where diverse backgrounds, genders, sexuality, age, cultures and abilities are celebrated.

We are a proudly multicultural institution, with people from more than 100 nationalities studying and working together across our campuses every day.

We take a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination, harassment and vilification, and have a range of initiatives to promote diversity and equality for our staff and students.

The results of the Racism@Uni Survey are a chance for reflection. We know that there is work still to be done on our campuses, as in the broader community, to address racism.

We will face racism head on and do all we can to eliminate it from Swinburne, and we will continue working to ensure you are protected and feel safe on campus.

If you, or someone you know, is affected by discrimination, harassment or vilification, Swinburne’s Safer Community team want to know. They will provide you with specialist advice and support around inappropriate or concerning behaviours.

For more information, please visit our website, email safercommunity@swin.edu.au, or submit an online report – anonymous options are available.

If you are affected by the survey findings, I encourage you to connect with our support services for students and staff:

  • Student wellbeing & support line for 24/7 crisis counselling – call 1300 854 144 or text 0488 884 145
  • Counselling via the Swinburne Health Service – book an appointment via our website, or call 03 9214 8483
  • Staff can access our 24/7 wellbeing support service, Sonder. The Sonder app is available on Apple or Android. You can also access our Employee Assistance Program by phone on 1800 234 560.

I appreciate that so many of you took part in this important research, and I thank you for your contribution to this landmark survey.

While sharing those experiences will not have been easy, your contribution is vital for Swinburne to know what's happening on our campuses, and what needs to change to help make Australian universities safer for all learners.

Take care of each other and yourself,
Pascale

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