Upholding our values is everyone’s responsibility
Safety, inclusion and respect are central to Deakin’s culture. We pride ourselves on our values and we celebrate diversity. It’s important to us that you feel protected and supported as a Deakin student and that you study in an environment where you can succeed personally and academically.
Every member of the Deakin community has a role to play in living these values, including you. Here are some ways you can contribute to our campuses in a positive way.
Be responsible
Everyone at Deakin should ensure that our working, learning and residential environments are free from all inappropriate behaviours. Our Student Code of Conduct and Rights and Responsibilities outline the expectations we have of each other, and explain core behaviours of cooperation, honesty and integrity.
One of your most important responsibilities as a student is academic integrity and all commencing students are automatically enrolled in a compulsory unit on this topic. You’ll find it in the My Units tab of DeakinSync.
Be respectful
We promote a culture and environment based on safety and respect to ensure all students and staff are protected and supported.
All commencing students are expected to complete the Respectful Behaviour module, which examines issues like sexuality, human rights, gender equality and gender-based violence, and respectful relationships and consent. Completing this unit will give you the knowledge and skills to navigate some complex situations that you may face either at university or later on in life.
Be aware
Through education and leadership, we aspire to create a culture that does not tolerate inappropriate behaviour. Our Diversity and Inclusion programs – encompassing cultural diversity and inclusion, gender equity, Indigenous student mentoring, and disability access and inclusion – promote awareness and equal access.
We also recognise the rights of our LGBTIQ+ students and staff to live free of prejudice and discrimination, and actively and positively support this diversity, including through our network of LGBTIQ+ Allies.
Be safe
Your safety is one of our highest priorities. Every day, our security team works tirelessly in the background to keep all our campuses safe, especially during busy times such as the start of trimester when there are lots of new people on campus.
Remember to download the free SafeZone App, which will connect you directly with campus security services when you need them. Use the app to get help in an emergency, call for first aid or just talk to a friendly voice in less urgent situations.
We’re also committed to preventing and addressing sexual harm, which is a significant issue for all universities as well as the wider community.
Be vocal
Seen any behaviour that doesn’t align with our values, policies and procedures, or is outside the student or staff code of conduct? Speak up! For urgent or immediate help with problem behaviour, including drinking on campus or bullying, or if someone is in imminent danger, contact Deakin Security on 1800 062 579 or Victoria Police on Triple Zero (000).
For enquiries or disclosures about sexual harm or domestic violence (recent, historical and either on- or off‑campus), contact Safer Community.
You can also be a positive force for change by learning how to become an active bystander. Our free training gives you tools for dealing with difficult situations – for example, a joke or remark that makes you feel uncomfortable or a more serious situation like sexual harassment – in a practical and positive way. To find out more about upcoming training take a look at DUSA’s short courses or email [email protected].
Be proud
We want you to enjoy studying at Deakin and be proud graduates at the end of your journey, so help us ensure that our university remains a welcoming, respectful and progressive place now and in the future.