University of Sydney Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Mark Scott wrote to students and staff today, informing them of the implementation of five revised key policies that guide how we connect, communicate, and express ourselves across the University - and the forthcoming launch of a new complaints webpage, the first stage of a broader project to reform how we manage complaints.

Dear students and colleagues,

For 175 years, the University of Sydney has been a public institution for good – serving our communities through transformational education and outstanding research. We want to be a place where all members of our community feel welcome. Where the best and brightest can flourish. Where everyone feels safe to be themselves no matter their religion, gender, sexuality, race or ability.

In a world of increased conflict and polarisation, that can be challenging. But over the past year, we’ve done some significant work across the University to ensure our campus is a place where everyone can thrive. We have been focusing on our foundations, cultivating a positive, respectful culture and improving processes to empower staff and students, and I’d like to update you on our progress. 

Implementation of five key policies

With feedback from our community, we’ve revised five key policies that guide how we connect, communicate, and express ourselves across the University:  

• Acceptable Use of ICT Resources Policy 2025 (pdf, 1.3 MB)
• Email and Electronic Messaging Policy 2025 (pdf, 1.1 MB) (formerly University Staff and Students Broadcast Email Policy) 
• Flag Policy 2025 (pdf, 762 KB) (formerly Flag Guidelines)
• Promotional and Display Materials Policy 2025 (pdf, 765 KB) (formerly Advertising on Campus Policy) 
• Public Comment and Social Media Policy 2025 (pdf, 664 KB) (formerly Public Comment Policy)

These policies balance our commitments to campus safety with those to academic freedom and freedom of speech and set clear standards for what is and isn’t acceptable. I thank everyone who took the time to contribute their views. Our website has more information about what has changed in these policies and guides on what they mean for you.

Complaints process uplift

We’ve heard your feedback that you want an easier way of telling us when you witness or experience behaviour that isn't ok — whether that’s bullying, harassment, racism, sexual misconduct, an administrative issue or something else that affects aspects of university life. 

In response to this feedback, we’ll soon be launching a new, more user-centric webpage that brings all the key information and options together in one place.  

This is the first stage of a broader project to reform how we manage complaints across the University, grounding our approach in care and accountability. 

In the coming months, we’ll continue collaborating with our community to refine and improve the feedback and complaints process and implement the recommendations of the Hodgkinson External Review report.  

I’ll keep you updated on our work to make our campus safe and welcoming for all.

Kind regards, 

Mark

Professor Mark Scott
Vice-Chancellor and President