Fostering a safe environment to express yourself freely at University
University campuses in Australia and around the world have been at the forefront of political and social change as a result of protest and activism. Robust, non-violent, informed and civil debate is how our community is able to challenge ways of thinking and bring about positive societal change.
Our students come from diverse backgrounds, and with this comes a diverse range of perspectives, values and beliefs. We support the right of all students to express their opinions and political views in a safe, respectful and legal way. This support extends to protecting the right to remain silent, and the freedom to elect only to listen or not participate in debates at all.
How can I express myself and my views on campus?
The University is committed to providing all students with a safe environment to listen and engage with varied perspectives, as well as develop and advocate for ideas and opinions.
As a University of Sydney student, you have rights to freedom of speech and academic freedom. This includes the freedom to disagree and to protest, within the limits set out in the Campus Access Policy 2024 and the Student Charter.
Demonstrations, such as protests and picket lines, are permitted on campus provided they comply with the Campus Access Policy 2024, the Student Charter, and applicable laws and regulations.
If you wish to hold a demonstration on campus, the Campus Access Policy requires you to give the University 72 hours’ notice – by email to operations.controller@sydney.edu.au – to ensure we’ve got the right resources in place so that the activity can proceed in a way that’s safe for both protesters and other members of our community.
You’re also allowed to put up posters and similar materials on notice boards and other designated spaces across campus, as per the Advertising on Campus Policy, as well as hand out flyers, pamphlets and similar materials. If someone wishes to put up signage elsewhere, you will need to seek approval to allow the University to ensure that it is safe and will not damage buildings and infrastructure.
For practical advice around expressing yourself on campus, including how to advocate for change civilly and disagree well, view our guide to freedom of expression at the University. You can also view our Campus Access Policy FAQs for answers to frequently asked questions about the policy.
What are my responsibilities?
As a University of Sydney student, you must act in accordance with the Student Charter. Our Engaging with civility module on Canvas, co-designed with University students and staff, is an excellent resource to help you unpack the values and expectations outlined in the Student Charter.
Through scenarios inspired by real experiences at the University, the module will help you understand our expectations around freedom of speech and respectful engagement; provide avenues for support if you experience bullying, discrimination, harassment or disrespectful behaviour; and help you recognise behaviours that support a sense of connectedness, safety and belonging to the University community.
Our Campus Access Policy 2024, introduced in July 2024, provides clearer information about expectations and requirements of conduct on campus. The policy balances the University’s commitment to freedom of speech and academic freedom with our obligations to protect the health, safety and wellbeing of our community.
Where can I find and access support if I’m impacted by unacceptable behaviour?
The safety and wellbeing of our community is our number one priority. The University has zero tolerance for any form of racism, threats to safety, hate speech, intimidation, threatening speech, bullying or unlawful harassment, including antisemitic or anti-Muslim language or behaviour.
If you feel unsafe on campus or witness other forms of concerning behaviour, you can call protective services on 9351 3333. If you witness an incident, please report it via our online complaints form.
Free and confidential counselling and wellbeing support is also available 24/7 via our student life, health and wellbeing webpage.