We're proud to be a leader in social justice and inclusion. As a progressive and socially responsible institution, we're continually working to better ourselves and ensure we provide an inclusive and safe environment for all students and staff. The Monash Diversity and Inclusion Framework draws together activities, programs and initiatives under one strategy.
In 2021, Monash University launched the new compulsory Indigenous Voices Program, comprising four modules designed to equip all students with an understanding of Indigenous knowledge, cultures and contemporary issues. The program fulfils the University’s commitment made in its Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Framework to provide students with an opportunity to understand the rich and complex histories of the lands on which we study, work and live. It also acknowledges the First Nations peoples whose lands our campuses are on, and includes insights and experiences from First Nations students who study at Monash University, Indigenous academics and local Indigenous Elders.
The Indigenous Advisory Council was established in 2020 to provide advice on matters of state and national significance to Indigenous communities and higher education, and in relation to the priorities and achievements of Monash University’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community. Importantly, it will guide the work of the University’s William Cooper Institute through expertise and high-level strategic input.
In 2019, we launched the Monash Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Framework 2019–2030 which is helping to remove identified barriers to study and create clear pathway options for prospective Indigenous students. The Framework establishes our commitment to making a leading national and international contribution to Indigenous advancement over the next 12 years. Once realised in 2030, it will represent over 75 years of effort and achievements in Indigenous higher education in Australia.
The Ally Network at Monash promotes Monash as a safe and inclusive space for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and gender-diverse, intersex, queer and questioning, asexual and aromantic, plus other related identities (LGBTIQA+) students and staff. In 2021, Respectful Communities launched a LGBTIQA+ Ally training program delivered in-house, including a specific program for students, facilitated by students. At the end of 2021, 1654 staff and students had completed training since the network began, with 1080 registered allies across our Australian campuses. A further 160 staff completed Queer Connect training specifically for supporting LGBTIQA+ students.
The Give Respect Art Competition gives all current student and staff an opportunity to contribute towards building a more respectful and equitable Monash community with their artwork. The Competition promotes these values at Monash. Submissions must be an original piece of art that could convince somebody to think more deeply about behaving respectfully. You can now view the 2021 exhibition catalogue.