Statement reaffirming the importance of freedom of speech, academic freedom and student and staff safety on Australian university campuses

The University Chancellors Council Plenary meeting considered a letter from the Australian Academic Alliance Against Antisemitism. The following is the UCC position:

The University Chancellors Council is the Australian peak body for university governing councils.

The highest priority for all universities is to maintain a safe, respectful and inclusive environment, both physically and online, for all staff and students.

UCC notes that freedom of expression is a foundational principle of university governance. UCC reaffirms the obligations and practices of all Australian universities to protect freedom of speech and academic freedom.

Hate speech or conduct directed at any person or group of persons because of their nationality, religion or identity is completely unacceptable.

As the peak body responsible for oversight and governance we are confident that the management of our university sector has policies, procedures and sanctions in place to allow for academic freedom and freedom of expression across our campuses.

John Stanhope AM
Convenor
2 May 2024