At Curtin University, we actively work and stand against racism in every form. We foster a respectful, inclusive and equitable community where every individual is welcomed, valued and able to thrive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We acknowledge the presence and impact of interpersonal, institutional and systemic racism, and we continually seek to identify and dismantle them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Our campuses reflect a rich diversity of cultures, ethnicities, faiths, nationalities, and perspectives. We strive to create safe spaces where everyone is respected and feels a sense of belonging. We recognise that racism undermines the inclusive and respectful culture we strive to build. Confronting racism in all its forms is a shared responsibility, and we all need to commit to addressing it whenever it appears. Upholding these values also means ensuring that freedom of speech and academic freedom are encouraged and protected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We approach our commitment to anti-racism with a deep respect for human rights in the belief that no one should experience discrimination based on race, ethnicity, migrant status, age, disability, gender, gender identity, sexuality, religion or socio-economic status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As an academic institution with a culturally, racially, and linguistically diverse staff, domestic student, and international student population, we teach, learn, research, and engage in dialogue that deepens understanding and supports the potential of all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Curtin\u2019s largest and oldest campus is based on the land of the Whadjuk people of the Noongar Nation. As such, we respect and honour their enduring knowledges, cultures, and contributions, and those of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of Australia. We advance contemporary Reconciliation based on respectful relationships through reciprocity and shared responsibility focused on actions. We aim to embed truth-telling in learning and teaching, research, and engagement, and we work to acknowledge the enduring impacts of historical and systemic racism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We strive to create culturally responsive learning, research and working spaces for all and recognise this as a continuous journey that requires listening, learning, and meaningful action.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We also recognise and respect the First Nations peoples of the lands on which our global campuses are situated and seek to respect Indigenous peoples and knowledges within our teaching, research and engagement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We are also guided by Curtin’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander commitment<\/a>, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples<\/a> and the Universities Australia Indigenous Strategy<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Racism is any belief, behaviour, policy, or system that asserts or reinforces the superiority of one racial or ethnic group over another. It operates through unequal power relations and is rooted in historical processes such as colonialism, slavery, and segregation, which continue to shape institutions and social norms today. It includes individual acts of discrimination and prejudice, as well as institutional and systemic practices that disadvantage people based on their race, ethnicity, culture, language, or faith. Racism is not only about intent\u2014it also includes processes<\/em> and outcomes<\/em> that perpetuate inequality and privilege even when unintentional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n By naming and understanding these forms of racism, we collectively equip our University community to recognise, challenge, and work towards making our campuses free from them. Together, we learn to be anti-racist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Anti-racism<\/strong> is the active and intentional effort to oppose and dismantle racist policies, systems, ideas, and practices, including both systemic and institutional racism and individual biases. It goes beyond simply being “not racist,” requiring ongoing, committed action to promote racial equity, challenge discrimination, and transform institutions and society to create equal opportunities for all people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As a university grounded in learning, research, and engagement, Curtin recognises its responsibility to actively challenge racism in all its forms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As part of this commitment, Curtin University will develop and implement an Anti-racism Strategy and Action Plan that seeks to establish meaningful anti-racist actions, while fostering an environment free from racism\u2014one that supports the community in pursuing academic excellence with integrity and ethical rigor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Curtin\u2019s anti-racism efforts are guided by a commitment to advancing the rights, dignity, and contributions of all peoples and communities represented within our University, ensuring that our practices and partnerships are responsive to the diversity and lived experiences of our campus populations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n These anti-racism efforts are underpinned by Curtin\u2019s commitment to principles of academic freedom and freedom of speech. While core commitments, these principles are not absolute; they are informed by applicable law, Curtin\u2019s Values, the Academic Freedom and Freedom of Speech Policy<\/a>,<\/u> the Code of Conduct, and Curtin\u2019s duty to foster the wellbeing of staff and students.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In developing the plan, the University honours Curtin\u2019s longstanding journey of Reconciliation between non-Indigenous peoples and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This journey is grounded in meaningful, reciprocal relationships built on respect and opportunity\u2014both within the University and in partnership with the wider community\u2014that foster, share, and embed Indigenous knowledges and ways of being and doing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In consultation with staff and students, Curtin University will develop its Anti-racism Strategy and Action Plan in 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Through shared responsibility and continuous learning, we actively strengthen Curtin\u2019s culture so that equity, belonging, and respect define the Curtin experience for staff, students, partners and the wider community. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Addressing racism is an ongoing process underpinned with learning and critical self-reflection, and is realised through sustained, collective action across our university. We encourage every member of the Curtin community to build their awareness, reflect, and take responsibility for making change. A range of resources is available to guide action, strengthen understanding, and offer ways to respond to and report racism or discrimination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We Acknowledge that Curtin University has campuses on the lands of Aboriginal people in Boorloo (Perth) and Karlkurla (Kalgoorlie) in Australia. We respectfully acknowledge their Elders past and present as Custodians and Owners of these lands. Curtin also acknowledges all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and First Nations peoples connected with the global campuses.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\nDefining racism<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Racism can be:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Anti-racism commitment<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Shared responsibility<\/h2>\n\n\n\n