AAHPSSS is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment that celebrates diversity and encourages the participation of all individuals. We recognise the value that diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences bring to our academic community. These principles guide our commitment to equity and diversity in all aspects of our work.
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- Respect and Inclusion
We uphold the inherent dignity and respect of all individuals, irrespective of their race, ethnicity, nationality, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, or socioeconomic status. All members of our community have the right to feel safe, respected, and included in both academic and social settings. - Commitment to Equity
We acknowledge that structural inequalities and barriers disproportionately affect certain groups. We are committed to addressing these inequities by actively promoting fair treatment, access to resources, and opportunities for historically underrepresented or disadvantaged groups, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, women, people with disabilities, and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. - Cultural Awareness and Competency
We embrace and promote cultural awareness across our organisation. We commit to continual learning and development in understanding the diverse cultural needs of our community. We recognise and respect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Nations of Australia, and we are committed to centering their voices, knowledge systems, and leadership in matters that affect their communities and in advancing justice and reconciliation. - Zero Tolerance for Discrimination and Harassment
We are committed to maintaining a zero-tolerance stance on any form of discrimination, harassment, or bullying. All allegations of misconduct will be taken seriously and addressed in a timely and just manner, in accordance with our constitution. This includes the development of clear complaints processes and systems both organisationally, and for AAHPSSS run events. - Inclusion at Conferences, Public Talks, and Events
We believe that all of our events should reflect our commitment to equity and diversity, by providing an accessible environment and ensuring full participation for all attendees. This includes ensuring that materials, event facilities, and technological resources are accessible to all, and that reasonable adjustments are made for individuals with disabilities or special requirements. In particular, to achieve this:- Accessibility: Ensure venues are wheelchair-accessible, with adequate seating and facilities for people with mobility, hearing, or visual impairments. Provide sign language interpreters, live captioning, and assistive listening and speaking devices when needed.
- Inclusive Event Design: Offer diverse modes of participation, such as virtual attendance options and flexible scheduling to accommodate those who may face barriers in attending in person. Include gender-neutral bathrooms and clearly mark accessible paths.
- Speaker and Audience Diversity: Actively seek to include a diverse range of speakers and panelists, ensuring representation across gender, ethnicity, ability, career stage and status, and cultural backgrounds. Encourage diversity in audience participation through outreach and ensuring that conference materials are available in multiple formats (e.g., large print, electronic copies, screen-reader compatible).
- Inclusive Catering: Provide a range of dietary options, including vegetarian, vegan, halal, kosher, and allergen-free choices, clearly labelled for easy identification.
- Code of Conduct: Implement and communicate a clear code of conduct for all events, outlining expectations around respectful behaviour and zero tolerance for discrimination or harassment. Ensure that event organisers are trained in responding to any incidents appropriately. Ensure clear complaints lodgement and management processes exist prior to events.
- Promoting Diversity in Leadership and Decision-Making
We strive for diversity in leadership roles and decision-making processes. We actively work to ensure that voices from underrepresented groups are heard and considered in the governance and strategic direction of our organisation. - Continuous Improvement
We recognise that achieving true equity and diversity requires ongoing effort and accountability. We commit to regularly reviewing our policies, practices, and culture to ensure they are aligned with our equity and diversity goals, and to making adjustments as necessary.
- Respect and Inclusion
By adhering to these principles, we aim to create a community within AAHPSSS where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, contribute, and achieve their potential.