Respectful conversations

We encourage all members of our community to engage with issues around the Voice to Parliament, to understand perspectives different to their own, and above all to be respectful.

There are social, ethical, and behavioural standards expect at UTS as part of our core values. This includes actions and behaviour that is constructive of an inclusive culture where the principles of diversity and inclusion are integrated into our everyday activities and processes. 

All UTS community interactions including virtual, digital, in person and/or via social media accounts must be respectful and abide by the expectations outlined in the UTS Equity, Inclusion and Respect Policy 

We also acknowledge the mental and emotional toll that this may take on Indigenous members of our community. Indigenous Australians may at times bear an additional, and often unrecognised, cultural load within a workplace. This cultural load is formally recognised within the UTS Staff Agreement and will be minimised wherever possible. 

The bottom line: UTS has zero tolerance for bullying, harassment, and hate advocacy. If you have encountered any of this behaviour, please seek support (see below) and you may wish to make a complaint.

What we can all do 

  • Acknowledge that Indigenous Australians bear an additional cultural and mental load, the legacy of a history of genocide and oppression brought about by colonisation. 
  • In these important conversations, be aware that there will be times when Indigenous staff and students do not wish to be in the spotlight. Being respectful and not putting pressure on any one individual is a lesson we can all take on board as we move closer to the referendum. 
  • Educate yourself – our resources page is a great place to start. 

Support for staff and students 

We have established a Working Group co-chaired by Pro Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous Leadership and Engagement) Professor Robynne Quiggin and Pro Vice-Chancellor (Social Justice and Inclusion) Professor Verity Firth, to consider a range of matters related to the upcoming referendum on the Voice to Parliament.

Acknowledgement of Country

UTS acknowledges the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, the Boorooberongal people of the Dharug Nation, the Bidiagal people and the Gamaygal people, upon whose ancestral lands our university stands. We would also like to pay respect to the Elders both past and present, acknowledging them as the traditional custodians of knowledge for these lands.