Discrimination
The University of Melbourne is committed to providing an environment that is free from unlawful discrimination. In accordance with relevant Federal and Victorian Legislation, the Melbourne University Student Union and the University of Melbourne have discrimination policies that apply to students and staff.
What is discrimination?
Direct discrimination occurs whenever someone is treated less favourably on the basis of one or more of the following attributes:
- political beliefs and activities
- lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation
- religious beliefs or activities
- age
- sex
- race
- disability
- industrial activity
- parental or carer status
- pregnancy
- breast feeding
- marital status
- personal association with someone who is identified by reference to any of the above attributes.
Indirect discrimination occurs when a rule, practice or policy appears to be neutral but in effect has a discriminatory impact on a particular group of people.
Discriminatory harassment is any behaviour that takes place on the basis of the above attributes which offends, humiliates or intimidates. It can include being denied access to courses, unfair treatment in assessment, harassment in classes, university activities or on university grounds.
If you wish to discuss issues around discrimination you can contact:
Additionally, the University provides advice and support regarding the implementation of its Appropriate Workplace Behaviour Policy via its Safer Community Program.
UMSU is governed by its own sexual harassment, discrimination and bullying policies and procedures. It is important when you are seeking advice that you indicate if you think a respondent may work for UMSU so you can be advised of the relevant process and gain appropriate assistance.